We’ve all met someone—a waitress, store clerk, coworker, or friend—who was lacking in people skills. In fact, if you’re honest you probably have had your own moments when you lacked a bit of people skills yourself. Jesus scolded His disciples because of their poor people skills:
Some people brought their children to Jesus so that He could place His hands on them and pray for them. His disciples told the people to stop bothering him. But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and don’t try to stop them! People who are like these children belong to God’s kingdom.”
– Matthew 19:13-14
Can you imagine being one of those parents? You’d have been wondering what the matter was with those disciples! They needed to get some people skills! I think Jesus was thinking the same thing. He recognized the value in those precious children and reminded us that we can often learn from their child-like faith.
The fact is that Jesus came to earth for people, lived a sinless life for people, died on the cross for people, rose from the dead for people, and lives this day to intercede with God for people. People matter to God, and how we treat people matters to God as well. Let’s start within our own families – the people God placed into our lives by design!
There was a mother who read her daughter a story every night and then stayed with her until she fell asleep. One particular night it was very stormy and the gusty winds and heavy rain frightened the little girl. However, the mother was feeling ill that evening and couldn’t read the story and sit until her daughter fell asleep. She said, “Don’t worry. Jesus will be here with you.” Her daughter’s reply was priceless. She answered, “But mommy, I need Jesus with the skin on.”
That is what you get to be every day to your family – Jesus with skin on. Every day you get the opportunity to represent Jesus to those He loves and cares for so deeply.
How can you love your family the way Jesus does?
- Watch your mouth and speak only what is good. You are like packing material – your words create a safe environment.
- Delete back-biting and unconstructive criticism from your vocabulary.
- Learn to handle criticism without taking offense.
- When given the choice, assume the best.
-Pastor Kevin Berry
Prayer: “Father, please help me to develop a deeper love for my family. Work in my heart through your Holy Spirit and grant me grace to grow in the area of my people skills. I want to be “Jesus with skin on” to everyone I meet, but most importantly, I want to start at home. Help me to love others the way you do. Amen.”
