“Feeling Forgotten”
The Bible mentions many examples of Jesus looking at an individual or group of people. His gaze in the Gospels often reveals his love, discernment, or intentional pursuit of individuals.
A few include Mark 3:34 “Jesus looking upon him (the Rich Young Ruler) loved him and said…”. “He scanned the crowd looking for a faithful family member” (Mark 3:34). “He looked at Peter to foretell his call” (John 1:42). “Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible’” (Mark 19:26).
It can’t be denied; Jesus was interested in relationships and desires a personal relationship with each of us. His love, compassion, grace, mercy, desire to forgive, patience, and kindness never wavers. He “Came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). His love for us is never ending and his faithfulness endures forever.
These things are mentioned because there is an epidemic in the United States and around the world – it’s called “Loneliness.” Relationships are essential to good health – mentally, physically, and emotionally. Everyone wants some type of relationship and if scorned by a parent or surrounding peers, many seek and find acceptance elsewhere. Gangs don’t happen by accident – they are formed by individuals willing to accept one another. The point is, there are good and bad relationships because we really do need someone. As believers we are to love others and treat them as we want to be treated. Who do you know that needs a friend or could use some encouragement? Reach out to them.
A man named Zacchaeus knew what it was like to be on the outside of a crowd. He wasn’t innocent. He’d made choices that hurt people and he knew exactly what others thought when they saw him. When Jesus came through Jericho, he did something a respected adult man didn’t do. He ran ahead, climbed a tree, and tried to get a clear look.
Then Luke gives this line: “When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up” (19:5). Jesus didn’t glance around. He stopped and looking up through the branches saw the person everyone else had labeled. Then he called Zacchaeus’ by name out loud. The point is, you may be struggling and feeling alone or maybe even unworthy. You’ve been hurt and shunned by others. You’re paying the price for some poor choices. My friend, Jesus knows where you are, how you feel, and what you need. If you listen, you’ll hear Him calling your name followed with, “Come to Me!” He not only wants to be your friend, but more importantly your Savior! You may feel forgotten, but not by Jesus! Developing a relationship with Him will change your life.
Pastor Carnes
