What comes to mind when you see a man on the street with a sign reading, “will work for food.” Or how about the child throwing a tantrum in the store?  Or the preacher with the big Bible and pulpit?

I am sure we could come up with an interesting list of  responses.  And if we were honest with ourselves and one another, we might discover the true attitude of our  heart.    Let me share an experience I had today.

After a full morning of physical therapy, I sat down for lunch, eager for a break.  I realized, once again, a patient referred from an outside clinic missed their scheduled appointment. My thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door.  I was told there was a man, outside, waiting for therapy.   So two hours later, the patient had finally arrived and expected to be seen (even two hours is late for Guatemala)!

I had just started eating and had other work still to complete, I didn’t want so see him, let alone take the time to talk to him.  I waited a few minutes before going out to meet him.  I introduced myself and asked him about his 11:30 appointment and why he was late.  He looked at me like he had no idea what I was talking about. Was this just a ploy so I would seem him?  I braced myself for some excuse and why I should see him right away; but there was none.  Surprised, I asked him the reason he had come.  He began telling me about his son who hurt is leg in an accident.  Currently, he couldn’t walk.  The man had come, hoping we would lend him a pair of crutches for his son.  Could I help?

My heart and attitude completely changed as I realized this wasn’t the patient who had missed his appointment.  Instead of responding in frustration, I began to respond out of compassion and concern, simply because I knew the truth.  It was a great lesson and reminder to me of the dangers of making assumptions and judging others or situations without first really knowing the circumstances.

How can I love others as God loves me, if I’ve failed to hear their story, but instead respond out of my assumptions?  God reminded me of the importance of guarding my heart, especially in making false assumptions and judgements so I can serve Him and His people with clean hands and a pure heart.