As I’ve said on more than one occasion, I enjoy watching people. I can sit for hours and watch as they, lost in their own little worlds, file by.
Lately I’ve noticed something about people. There are many who can’t take a step unless they have a certain electronic device in their hand.
With the dexterity of a brain surgeon, they read and send text messages while they walk; making sure they stay in contact with their world.
Even though they run the risk of stumbling.
And yes, I’ve done the very same thing.
But think about how dangerous it is.
Walking while preoccupied, eyes focused on something other than what you’re supposed to be doing, can result in a tragic accident.
Much like trying to walk with God while preoccupied with everything but what I should be paying attention to.
“Anyone who loves another brother or sister is living in the light and does not cause others to stumble.” (1 John 2:10 NLT)
The word, “stumble”, is a greek word meaning “offense”. The picture painted by the word reveals offense as a snare, a trap, or a pit.
If we don’t watch where we’re walking, or how we’re walking, we can fall into the pit of offense or push a fellow walker into it.
Scripture reveals God is able to keep us from falling, or stumbling, as we walk in the light and with one another; walking in accordance with God’s Word.
Those who are constantly watching their hands and feet, instead of what’s happening around them, become self-centered and easily offended and/or offensive.
“Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.” (Philippians 3:19 ESV)
Walking in the light isn’t merely walking with our nose stuck in the Word. The bible isn’t a book to absorb while isolating ourselves from the rest of the world.
No, walking in the light includes loving our brothers and sisters, and the world around us, with the love of Jesus.
Yes, there are times we need to concentrate on ourselves, our phones, our world; while paying attention to our surroundings.
“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7 ESV)
See? Walking in the light INCLUDES having fellowship with one another.
So let’s raise our eyes, pay attention as we walk, and find ways to help those around us.
Amen.
Jan Grace 