Learning Through Observing

As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury.

 He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins.

 “Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others.

All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth;

but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”

Luke 21:1-4

 

 

Recently I spoke to you about object lessons and how God can use them to teach us.

Jesus also taught His disciples just by observing people and then using their actions as a lesson for Peter, James, John and the others.

You could claim that Jesus had discernment and knew this woman’s heart.

He went beyond what He saw with His natural eyes and understood the intent of her heart in giving.

I couldn’t argue that point with you.

But those standing around did not.

Those to whom he addressed the words from our passage above would have seen her age, her dress, perhaps even her apprehension as she gave her offering.

Jesus taught his disciples that they could learn much by simply taking the time to observe people.

When Mary wiped His feet with her hair Jesus took the opportunity to contrast her love and service with the others in the room.

We get so busy sometimes we miss the chances that are there for us to learn simply by taking the time to watch people.

What child hasn’t, at some point in their lives,

copied those things they watched their parents doing.

Paul encouraged us to follow him as he followed Christ.

In other words observe my behavior and, as much as it exhibits Christ, copy me.

Are you taking note of those who live godly lives?

Are you following their examples?

Jesus took the time to note right behaviors in people.

We should too!