Sunday, September 2, 2007

WITJ?

WWJD (what would jesus do?) became popular in the 90's, especially around campuses in the US. Many use the motto for all sorts of accessories, including cuff-links, bracelets, bumper sticker. today, i had this sudden idea of WITJ (what if that's jesus?).

i was having a chat with a few friends from church, and as we talked about the difficulty in reaching out to people from a different background, a lot of times those who are less fortunate, perhaps less educated, i often fail in caring for them. i admire my friend who gave shelter to a complete stranger who had no place to stay, i know deep in my heart that no matter how much i say i should love my neighbors as myself, i know i would never invite a complete stranger to my home. but "what if that's jesus?"

i have been volunteering at a homeless shelter for a few years, many times i don't know how to talk to them, sometimes, i don't even feel like shaking hands with them, not to mention sitting next to those who refuse to take a shower. while i know what i should do, and i know in my head "WWJD" in these situations, sometimes i find it difficult even to try to reach out, especially when i am exhausted from my mon-fri work. i really feel like sitting at home, in front of the tv, or even just dosing off in my comfortable air-conditioned living room, watching discovery travel and living. but "what if that's jesus?"

i don't have an answer, i don't know how to balance all the different considerations, but i hope i can get myself more involved in serving others.