The Power of the Proper Point of View

This morning, as we prepare for communion, I want to reflect on the power of the proper point of view. As a kid, I never went deer hunting. Growing up, I was always fascinated whenever I would see a deer in the wild. As I became older and would run on trails in the woods, seeing deer was always breathtaking and a "God" moment. Therefore, when I came to church a few weeks ago and saw this picture of these two deer (a doe and a buck), you can imagine my shock when my point of view changed. 

My perspective on this picture changed because my 11-year-old son took up deer hunting. Therefore, the prior two months, I had been learning everything I could and purchasing everything needed to go deer hunting. The morning before seeing this picture, we saw several deer and almost had a shot at a few bucks. Now, seeing this picture reminded me of what we missed the day before and I began contemplating how we might do things differently when we see them again.

Realizing my perspective had changed reminded me of another story told by Steven Covey. It is the story of two men in a subway. It is 6 AM and an older man is on his way to work. He has not yet had his coffee and is not a morning person. Another younger man gets on the subway with two little boys appearing to be around the age of 5 years old. They look as though they have not slept and are running, jumping, yelling, and being very unruly. When the older man can't take it anymore, he finally says to the younger man, "Why don't you control your kids?" The younger man gasps and apologizes stating, "I am sorry. I am at a loss. We have been at the hospital all night and were just told their mother is not going to make it." The older man's attitude completely changes. He goes from wanting to put the man and kids in their place to wanting to do anything to help.

Christmas brings about challenging times with relationships. This morning, as we prepare for communion I want to encourage you to reflect on God's perspective. He loved us so much that he died for us. Despite our sins, he died for us. His law is love and His gospel is peace. Let's pray:

Father, thank you for loving us even though we don't deserve it. As we eat and drink at your table, we praise you for your unconditional love and for forgiving us of our sins. Father, help us. As we prepare for a season of family gatherings, there are lots of emotions. Help us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Help us to make every effort to do what is right in the eyes of everyone and to live at peace with everyone. Help us have the right point of view. Helps us to see others the way you see us. In Jesus' name. Amen