Take some time to watch people. I am not meaning in an inappropriate way. I mean really ‘see’ them. If I am not careful, I can think that I am engaging with people – yet truly, am not! I may think that I am “seeing” them, yet it is only at a surface level. The lure of a pressing schedule and unending “to-do” lists can seduce me into thinking that, with people, I can be fast and efficient.
Stephen Covey’s quote on relationships, in the midst of my compulsion for efficiency, is a healthy reminder for me. I suspect it will be for you too!
I was significantly struck with this picture as I sat with a father/son Maverick team. We were reflecting on Jesus’ call of the mission – to go and make disciples.
It became clear to me that this young business leader “saw” his mission when he saw his team. His eyes filled with tears as he reflected on the privilege of leading a business filled with a team, customers and suppliers who need Christ.
His passion for his people deeply impacted me. I was reminded of my ongoing need to grow in my capacity to “see” people the way Jesus sees people.
What do you ‘see’ when you see people?
Under pressure, when things are not easy, how do you see:
- Your team
- Your clients
- Your suppliers
- Your family, spouse, kids, neighbours.
When you “see” them, do you see:
- Problems?
- Interruptions?
- Distractions?
- Time wasters?
Jesus gives us a clear picture of how he saw people. His reminder in Matthew 9:35 – 38 NLT has helped me continue to adjust my view of how I see people; especially when I am pressed.
How do you see people?
“Jesus traveled through all the towns and villages of that area, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” Matthew 9:35-38 NLT
Here is a picture from my journal this past morning. I felt God’s nudge to slow down and grow in my capacity to “see” people the way He sees them.
If you want help on learning how to “see” people and communicate in a way that they feel “seen” and heard, please join us on June 28th and 29th for our next Maverick Communicator Course.
How you and I “see” people is a choice! What choice are you making?
A Maverick Application:
- Read and reflect on Matthew 9:35-38.
- What are you sensing God tell you as you think about your interactions with people?
- Are you “seeing” them as He sees them? If not, how are you seeing them?
- What application can you make at work and at home that will help you see people the way God sees them?
