October 16
Judging
Too Quickly
"Do not judge others. Then you will not be judged. You will be judged in the same way you judge others. You can be sure that the measure you use will be measured to you."
Matthew 7:1-2 (NIrV)
The flickering candlelight cast long, dancing shadows across the table. Amelia, dressed in a simple black dress, poured the wine with a practiced grace. Across from her, Mr. Henderson, a renowned surgeon, adjusted his cufflinks, his gaze sweeping over the dimly lit restaurant.
He had been in town for a medical conference, drawn to the elegant ambiance of the hotel restaurant where Amelia worked. She had impressed him—not just with her efficiency but with her sharp wit and keen observations about the guests she served. Intrigued, he had impulsively invited her to join him for dinner.
"And what do you do, Amelia?" he inquired, his voice carrying a hint of condescension.
Amelia paused, a flicker of unease passing over her face. "I'm a waitress," she said, keeping her voice steady.
Mr. Henderson raised an eyebrow. "A waitress? I see. And what are your aspirations?"
There it was. That subtle, unspoken judgment. Amelia felt the familiar sting of being underestimated. She straightened her shoulders. "I'm actually studying to be a chef," she replied. "I love creating delicious food, exploring different flavors, and understanding the art of presentation."
Mr. Henderson chuckled, the sound laced with amusement. "Ah, a chef. A noble pursuit, I suppose. But surely you understand the importance of a stable career path? Something more…substantial?"
A slow burn of frustration built in Amelia’s chest. "I believe that any job, done well, is valuable," she countered, her tone measured but firm. "Whether it's performing surgery or serving a meal, both require skill, dedication, and a passion for what you do."
Mr. Henderson's smirk faded, and Amelia saw the flicker of surprise in his eyes. Encouraged, she leaned in slightly. "Besides," she added with a wry smile, "I suspect that even the most brilliant surgeon needs someone to bring them their dinner."
A long silence stretched between them before Mr. Henderson finally let out a quiet chuckle. He nodded, conceding her point. The conversation shifted, the air between them lighter now, and Amelia felt an unexpected peace settle over her. She had spent so long believing that worth was something dictated by titles and paychecks, but tonight, she had reminded herself—and him—that success wasn’t measured in prestige alone.
As she walked home that evening, Amelia lifted a quiet prayer of thanks. "Lord, help me to see others as You do, and not through the lens of status or pride. Let me value people not for what they do, but for who they are."
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for reminding me that my worth is not defined by the opinions of others but by You alone.
Help me to see beyond surface-level judgments and to recognize the value in every person, no matter their title or position.
Teach me to treat others with the grace and humility that You show me daily.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
