Pollution

I am currently sitting in our livingroom on a bright clear sunny day. However, there is smoke and a putrid smell coming into the room. Outside a team of workers are laying asphalt. The burning tar smoke and smell has made it into the room.

I am reminded that there are are times when we are comfortable and enjoying ourselves, while all the time we are creating a putrid smell for others. We may be exhibiting a selfishness that offends. At times like these our lack of concern and compassion spreads a foul odor that reduces others to but a faint vapor.

We need to open our eyes to the imact that our selfishness and self-centeredness has on others. Then we can see the needs of others and how we can serve them and honor them. Serving and honoring others removes the barriers that divide us. Prejudice is then overcome. Harmony is promoted.

The apostle Paul admonishes us to “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others as more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4 ESV