Watching Closely

Watching Closely

The LORD is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth. Psalm 145:18

The young singer, whom I’ll call Paula, was nervous as she approached the tour bus. She had been invited to sing backup for a well-known Christian couple for the entire summer. While she was thrilled at the opportunity, she also was nervous. On stage, they were a loving pair. But what if that was just for appearances? What if they were rude to each other privately? What if they were rude to her? Her short career already had exposed her to singers who proclaimed joyous faith on the church platform but who were short tempered and sarcastic once they were away from the adoring crowds.

As Paula climbed the bus steps, she breathed a silent prayer: Lord, please let this couple be all I think they are. I don’t need another disappointment.

Just as she settled into a seat in the fifth row and placed a travel pillow in the small of her back, the famous couple stepped onto the bus. The wife, Beatrice, smiled.

“Paula, honey, you’re already here. Are you ready for an exciting, exhausting summer?”

“I hope so.”

Beatrice’s smile widened. “Oh, I know you are! The folks will love you. Let’s see; it’s my turn to pray before we start.” Her sincere prayer for travel mercies, protection for all whom they were leaving behind, and sensitivity to the Spirit’s leading at each concert gave Paula much to ponder as the bus pulled out of the parking lot.

She took a deep breath. Well, Lord, here we go. Then after a long moment, she added, And help me to look to you and not to them.

The bus shifted gears and merged into highway traffic. The long summer tour had begun. —SANDRA

Lord, I confess I’m like Paula, looking to others and hoping not to be disappointed as they live out their faith. Help me not to be so quick with my judgments. Help me to concentrate less on them and more on you.

What is Christian perfection? Loving God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength.

—JOHN WESLEY (1703–1791), ENGLISH EVANGELIST AND FOUNDER OF METHODISM