I have given “the look”. I’ve received “the look”. There are times when I know “the look” is right around the corner and I don’t want to turn that corner.
“The Look” could mean various things:
- When my children do something wrong and they know it’s wrong, sometimes just a look can be all the scolding they need. (Like those times at church when in the middle of a sermon and they may be chatting and giggling a bit too much with a friend? “The Look” is what they first get.)
- There are those instances when something wonderful happened, or a proud moment occurred, and “the look” confirms my complete parent approval.
- Students pass me in the hall or come into my classroom, and when I give them a certain look, they either know that I approve or disapprove of their behavior. I do have to watch my expressions at times because my face can speak volumes.
- Tim remembers a time when he was coaching one of the boys’ basketball games. He is usually intensely coaching the boys without bothering looking towards the crowd. But he recalls this one time when he glanced my way, I was looking at him, and when our eyes met we had “a look” that lovingly pierces the heart. Precious.
I’m sure we could go on and on with scenarios when we’ve either received or given “the look”.
Today when reading Luke 22:54-62 about Peter disowning Jesus, verse 61a jumped out at me. It says, “The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter.” Oh my goodness! I don’t even want to imagine the look on Jesus’ face. Was it the look of “I took you so”, disappointment, or hurt? Either choice would be a crushing one to the heart to receive from Jesus Christ.
Let’s learn a lesson from Peter:
- When Jesus tells you something (maybe you receive a confirmation when reading God’s word, hear a sermon or conversation that you feel was directed to you, or have a feeling of a God moment), listen to Him, believe, and obey.
- Peter had a weakness somewhere in his life that Satan was able to sneak into the crevices of Peter’s mind. Maybe your weakness is the love of money like Peter’s appeared to be. Whatever your weakness is, don’t let it have a stronghold on you. Pray and seek God’s wisdom and protection daily from it.
- Don’t deny your relationship with Jesus Christ. When it seems that the crowd may be against you, don’t let go of your knowing of and belonging to Christ. Be proud to be a child of God. Take complete ownership in that.
- Don’t disappoint God. When you realize that you did, you may do as Peter did and “weep bitterly” (verse 62).
Happiness
I can imagine that God is up there looking down at me and gives me “the look” of disappointment at times. Ugh! “I’m sorry, God.” But I sure hope He also gives “the look” of “That’s my girl!” too. I feel that He does.
What about you? What look is God giving you right now?
Blessings to you.
May 8