Oblivious?

Are we concerned about others?

They could be predators or allies.

Are you concerned about your life?

Am I in touch with my life?

Or are we oblivious, unaware of what's really going on with ourselves and the world around us?

Are we blind by choice (we're too busy to notice, some say) or blind due to ignorance about even our immediate neighbors, classmates, co-workers, and within our own families?

If we don't ask, many won't tell us.

Think of our typical replies when someone asks, "How are you doing?"

"Fine."

"Ok."

"Pretty good. How about you?"

"Good. Good. Thanks for asking."

It's tough to get to know others beyond superficial talk, isn't it?

People can have domestic trouble, a new baby, a new job, a loss of a job, and we can find out later and realize that we didn't know.

Those who are introverted, private people who don't like to talk much, and don't like to ask questions for fear that hearers will think they're nosy can be in the dark much of the time about what's going on.

Maybe we could be more open with others and willing to hear what's happening with them.

We could start to try today.

Final thoughts --

Paul was a spiritual man with visions and revelations from the Lord. 2 Corinthians 12:1-6

For I would have you know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel which was preached by me is not of human invention. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ. Galatians 1:11-12

But his spirituality wasn't only about knowing Christ and preaching the gospel.

I want to know Christ better. Yes, I want to know the power that raised Him from the dead. I want to join Him in His sufferings. I want to become like Him by sharing in His death. Then by God’s grace I will rise from the dead. Philippians 3:10-11

For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast about, for I am under compulsion; for woe to me if I do not preach the gospel. For if I do this voluntarily, I have a reward; but if against my will, I have been entrusted with a commission nonetheless. 1 Corinthians 9:16-17

Interestingly, Paul made time to know at least 30 people's names and how they helped him and the gospel. Romans 16:1-15, 21

Can we grow spiritually in our relationship with the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit 2 Corinthians 13:14; 1 John 1:3 and also make time to have deeper connections with others?

Yes, it can be hard for some of us who aren't outgoing.

If we try to open our eyes more to understand others and ourselves, let's remember that the Lord knows you and me.

When you pray, don't talk on and on as people do who don't know God. They think God likes to hear long prayers. Don't be like them. Your Father knows what you need even before you ask. Matthew 6:7-8

Don't worry and ask yourselves, "Will we have anything to eat? Will we have anything to drink? Will we have any clothes to wear?" Only people who don't know God are always worrying about such things. Your Father in heaven knows you need all of these. Matthew 6:31-32

Two sparrows cost only a penny, but not even one of them can die without your Father’s knowing it. God even knows how many hairs are on your head. So don’t be afraid. You are worth much more than many sparrows. Matthew 10:29-31

And in the future, we'll know even as we're known. 1 Corinthians 13:12

And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and His servants shall serve Him: and they shall see His face; and His name shall be in their foreheads. Revelation 22:3-4

Your thoughts?

R. Jason