One of the most amazing areas of ministry I get to see at Calvary is our Special Abilities Ministry. It is incredible. When I consider how much the ministry has grown, the number of families involved, and the number of volunteers who faithfully serve, I’m so encouraged. But that is not what impresses me most. What I love most is watching people slow down and notice others. It is one of the most beautiful pictures of the love of Jesus.

Last summer, my daughter Mary and I had the opportunity to participate in our Special Abilities Ministry during Adventure Weeks Plus. We joined for a few days at the Santa Barbara Zoo, Universal Studios, and Disneyland. Some of my absolute favorite, most life-giving moments were not the rides or attractions. They were the moments spent running around the parks and experiencing the joy and excitement of several of our VIPs (the name we use for our Special Abilities kids). Watching their excitement. Looking for Disney characters. Enjoying the sights, smells, and sounds. Eating our way through the parks. Laughing together. Just being together. One of the greatest gifts for me was watching my daughter Mary joyfully serve and participate in those moments.

Sometimes the greatest moments in life happen when we slow down enough to truly see the people right in front of us. Isn’t that exactly what Jesus did?

In Mark Chapter 5, Jesus was surrounded by a crowd. Everyone wanted something from Him, pressing in from every direction. Yet Jesus stopped. The One who created the universe noticed a hurting woman. The One who holds the stars together saw someone everyone else overlooked. That is the heart of God. Infinite power. Infinite love.

A right-sized life means we do not become so busy, distracted, or self-focused that we miss the people God puts in front of us. People are not interruptions to our mission. People are the mission.

Application: Who is someone God has placed in front of me that I need to slow down to truly notice?

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for noticing me. Thank You that even with all Your power and glory, You see every person. Give me Your eyes today. Help me slow down, notice others, and love people the way You love me. Amen.