Walking in Love: Seeing People Through God’s Eyes

Bible Verse:

“But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them.” — Matthew 9:36 (KJV)

Devotional

Missions begins with love. Before we serve with our hands, we must learn to see people with the heart of Jesus. When Jesus looked at the crowds, He did not simply see their circumstances, needs, or differences. He saw people who were valuable, loved, and in need of a Savior.

As we prepare to serve in Mexico, we may encounter people whose lives, experiences, and circumstances are different from our own. We may not understand everything they have experienced, but we can choose to listen, show patience, offer dignity, and love without judgment.

First Corinthians 13 reminds us that love is patient and kind. Love is not about recognition or receiving something in return. True love puts others first. On a mission trip, this means being willing to slow down, listen to someone's story, pray with them, encourage them, and meet them with genuine compassion.

Jesus said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). Our greatest testimony may not be what we say, but how we treat people.

We are not traveling to Mexico simply to complete a project or check a mission off a list. We are going to love people and represent Christ. Every conversation, prayer, smile, meal, helping hand, and act of kindness can communicate the love of Jesus.

Reflection

Ask yourself: Am I seeing people through God’s eyes or through my own assumptions? Is there someone I need to slow down and genuinely listen to? How can I show Christ’s love through my actions during this mission?

Prayer

Father, give me eyes to see people the way You see them. Give me a heart filled with compassion, patience, kindness, and genuine love. Help me never to judge someone by their circumstances or appearance. Teach me to listen, serve, encourage, and love without expecting anything in return. As we serve in Mexico, let our team reflect the heart of Jesus in everything we do. May every person we encounter feel valued, respected, and loved. Let our actions point people toward Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.