Are You Afraid to See?

Everyone has seen the commercials asking for donations to feed starving children or news stories about war-torn countries. It’s almost everyone’s first reaction to look away, or even turn the channel.

Why are those pictures so hard to see? Yes, we hate to see people hurting; but I think there’s more to it than that.

In our society, we are conditioned not to hurt – really, not to feel at all, unless it’s a “good” feeling. If something or someone makes us feel the least bit sad, angry, guilty, or otherwise uncomfortable, we are taught to turn our attention to ourselves and do whatever it takes to feel better, even to the detriment of others.

It has become almost natural for us to turn away when faced with someone else’s pain, whether it’s a medical crisis, the death of a child, or a failed marriage.

The problem is, “protecting” ourselves this way does more than distance us from people. It limits how close we can get to God.

Think about it: While God’s heart and eyes are wide open to the pain and injustice around the world, here we are with blinders on, trying to grope our way towards Him, avoiding everything He is feeling.

It’s not that we can’t know or love God from our bubble. But there is something about opening ourselves up to more than just the love of God that creates a rapport between the two of you that can’t be found another way.

Paul said, “I want to know Christ and … the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings” (Philippians 3:10). We may not have Paul’s experiences, but Jesus is still willing to share this part of Himself with those that truly seek to know Him.

It’s not about being super-spiritual or religious. There is simply a door in His heart that cracks open when you are genuinely interested in the things that concern Him.

And you cannot experience the heart of God and remain the same. You will gain in compassion. You will pray more, and better, because you’re praying from a heart connection and not duty.

So how do you get there? Start simple – next time you see a need, don’t close your eyes. Allow your heart to widen instead of tighten up, then take it to the Father. Allow yourself to weep before Him in grief or anger on behalf of someone else. Your simple willingness to feel will set you and your prayers apart in the eyes of God.