You may not realize it, but the Invisible Man may be standing next to you. If you remember the old sitcom SOAP, Burt Campbell thought he was an alien, and would make himself invisible. Only he wasn't, everyone could see him except himself. And one of the skits on Amazon Woman on the Moon, Ed Begley, Jr. plays the invisible man-except again he isn't. And every night he goes into the pub naked, so they won't see him, and makes glasses and drinks move, and the people patronize him by saying "oh look, must be the invisible man! Blimey!"
Much like the emperor's new clothes, his aren't.
There are many out there today that feel invisible. They carry with them a private pain, no one sees them or their burdens. Carrying about a loneliness, they can't even comprehend. And finally when the pain becomes too much, we see the mass shootings like we did last week. Some say a sign of the times, but I realize it is a sign of the heart. God tells us what comes out of our mouth is what is on our hearts, and I shudder when I listen, or worse hear what comes from my own mouth sometimes. So often when people come to the end of their ropes, they over react. They can't tell what or when something will push them over the line. Not expecting to fail, but inevitably doing so. And always taking out others who are not intended targets.
Try that one on those who drink only until they get a buzz, not knowing when to quit because they don't know when it will occur. The result is still sin. Self induced pain is often the worst, but all pain, regardless of the source causes damage. Then repair is necessary, when often maintenance, like we do on our bikes and cars is required. Properly dealing with the causes, and not making excuses for symptoms, can stop many small problems before they become major issues. If only we heed the warnings!
Perhaps that is why we need to show love in all situations. You don't know if the cop who pulled you over just left the scene of a fatal crash. You don't know if the slow person ahead of you in line just left her cancerous husband in the hospital. And we don't know what you are going through either. Only God knows.
Visiting Kelly and Theresa in Yuma yesterday, we visited their church. Although only there for a short time, with Theresa's surgeries and needing help, they have been there with meals, clothes, fellowship, and prayer. And for Joan too, and you can see the results in love. Theresa asked us yesterday did we like her church service. Based on their actions, I did. And based on the teaching, I did. But it was leaving the parking lot where I made my final decision. The sign said simply "you are entering your ministry field." And these people showed it. And by showing love have covered a multitude of sins. And love also can cover a multitude of doctrinal differences.
Let your love become visible today. You may just shine the light of love on someone who has invisible pain, and needs to be loved. But remember to keep your high beams off. It isn't about you, it is about Jesus. Enter your ministry field with Him today.
Starting with those who you share a home with. Like charity, love begins there. Make sure that it isn't invisible. Some are just waiting to get their first look at Jesus-and it may be you!
love with compassion,
Mike