Elevators & Indifference

March 8

Is there some written rule of etiquette that upon entering an elevator you are not to speak, smile, touch, or make eye contact with anyone else? Years ago I noticed this and have made a conscious effort ever since to break such rule if it exists.

I totally believe it is a tactic of the devil to get us to disconnect from one another. If he can get us to limit our sharing, caring and commitment to one another there is less opportunity for others to feel the love of Christ.

The epidemic infiltrates our homes and family lives as well. A young mother told me they were out to dinner and in the same restaurant was a family of four and each individual was focused on an electronic device. (Phone, ipod, ipad) She was shocked.

What does your dinner table look like? Are televisions, phones, computers, or even homework adorning the table and distracting verbal communication from taking place? The pace and regulations of our school/job may keep us from these enticing gadgets, geared to fill our every desire, but it's sad that longing has us running for them when we arrive home instead of soaking in sweet fellowship with the ones we love most.

Jesus walked with people, talked to people, reached out and touched people, as well as serving, caring for and listening to them. He is to be our example.

"The only escape from indifference is to think of people as our most cherished resource. We need to work hard at reestablishing family fun, meaningful meal times, people involvement and evenings without TV times when we genuinely get involved with folks in need-not just pray for them." Charles Swindoll

When you see people today, look through the lens of Jesus and consider why they may be in your path. Consider that you may be the only one to offer them a friendly hello and smile that can help them make it through a rough day. And be sure to shake up the elevator crowd next time you are on one!

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other,

just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

Here is a Biblical tip for meal time from The Message.

So let's agree to use all our energy in getting along with each other. Help others with encouraging words; don't drag them down by finding fault. You're certainly not going to permit an argument over what is served or not served at supper to wreck God's work among you, are you? I said it before and I'll say it again: All food is good, but it can turn bad if you use it badly, if you use it to trip others up and send them sprawling. When you sit down to a meal, your primary concern should not be to feed your own face but to share the life of Jesus. So be sensitive and courteous to the others who are eating. Don't eat or say or do things that might interfere with the free exchange of love. Romans 14:19