“Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Luke 15:10

I just finished a conversation with a friend about five minutes ago. She had spent some time with a controlling relative recently. It reminded me of a controlling mom from my past.

I was a softball coach. One of my players had an overbearing mom. She constantly interrupted things to tell me what to do. As is often the case, the mom had no understanding of the game. It was a difficult situation. I tried to avoid the mom and I felt sorry for the girl. I eventually lost track of the family.

I was reintroduced to the girl through Facebook. I was shocked. Many of the pictures she had posted were risque. The places she spent time were unhealthy, and the things she bragged about doing were sinful. I attributed her wayward behavior to rebellion against an overbearing mom, although I am sure this is not the outcome this mom wanted.

This is a sad story, but there is an even sadder one that I am going to share. I relayed this story in some detail to my friend without any sympathy or concern for this family. Instead, I openly displayed disdain. Instead of compassion for this young lady who lives a life of slavery to sin, I showed contempt. This is truly sad. It seems that I need a change of attitude.

This was a perfect opportunity for me to intercede for this family. I have access to the throne of God. I could have prayed that God would intervene and free them from sin and its consequences. As I look back, I also had a perfect opportunity to show concern when I coached the girl. Why wasn’t I in constant prayer for each girl that I was coaching?  Their eternal wellbeing matters more than how well they played softball. My priorities were and still are obviously messed up.

I must remember that each person is created in the image of God. Each is a soul for which Jesus died. If they matter to Him, they should matter to me. But they haven’t.

Now you have heard it, my sadder story. I encounter many people during the course of my day, and many more during the course of my life. Instead of viewing them as precious souls that Jesus came to save, I make judgments based on my own prejudices and legalism.  I desperately need a change of attitude.

Father  forgive me and make a change in my heart and mind. Oh Lord, let me love as you love. Let my heart’s desire be for others to come to know you as their personal Savior. Even when I am unable to change their circumstances or intervene to make a difference, I can pray. I can intervene on behalf of the lost because You can change their circumstances and intervene to make a difference. You can also change their heart. To You be all glory and honor and praise.