In December of 1962, Harper Lee’s novel, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” was released as a black and white film starring Gregory Peck. It was a time when racial inequality was at its height. Riots were going on across the country. Almost a hundred years after the abolition of slavery had been enacted, not a whole lot had really changed. The plot took place during the time of the Great Depression in a small, fictitious Alabama town. The novel was a Pulitzer Prize winner. The movie won several top awards, including an Academy Award for Peck. One of the most profound quotes is depicted in the image chosen for today. How far have we come in the fight for equality over the last 60 some years?

My post today is not about racism or politics, but more about the quote. In our world today, we are shrouded with a new kind of skepticism and injustice. We see it in the news of the day. We are exposed to truth occasionally, but for the most part, we don’t know who to trust anymore. Because of that, we’ve retreated into a cocoon of our own making. We also receive news of all kinds at a rapid-fire rate. We’ve forgotten how to empathize. Our focus seems to land on our own tiny existence. Instead of getting inside another person’s shoes, we have missed so much. We’ve limited ourselves and our ability to thrive.

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility, count others more significant than yourselves.” .Philippians 2:3 ESV

As you go through the rest of this week, try to look at others in a different light. Put yourselves in their position. Understand what they may be going through and encourage them in their trials. Instead of putting on a false mask to cover our inner selves, we need to also be willing to open ourselves to others. No one on this planet has a perfect existence. We all go through trials that test our faith and gnaw at our confidence. The most difficult part of enduring those ups and downs is to have someone to talk to. Pray for and with them. Send them an encouraging word every day. Lift their spirits by having a meal a cup of coffee with them. Our empathy needs a recharge. Jesus showed His, by the words He spoke – the compassion He felt – the love He exhibited – the miracles He performed – by giving His life for us. Let His example shine through us.

THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR ANOTHER DAY!