Watch, Wonder, and Walk Forward

Have you ever wondered what people watched before Netflix, YouTube, or Direct TV? For me, it was something far more entertaining — people!

How so? Journey back with me to a time when God first taught me a simple but profound truth by watching folks going about their daily lives.

It’s the 1960’s and I’m in high school in Las Vegas—a town full of fascinating people. Yet, for me, it’s not so much the celebrities who intrigue me, but the “ordinary” people who pass by as I sit on my usual bench at Vegas Village.

 I watch. And I wonder.

I watch the young mom juggling bouncy kids and bulging bags. I wonder how she’s managing, if she’s happy, and if she has a husband at home to help her.

 I watch the teen “hoods” strutting by in black leather jackets and upturned collars, streaming smoke, and vulgarities. I wonder how they got here, where they’re going, and who waits for them at home.

I watch an elderly couple shuffling slowly by, arm in arm. I wonder what they were like at my age, what they did, or dreamed of doing, in the early 1900’s.

I watch, and I wonder, about the “ordinary” people passing by— what’s brought them to this town, what makes them laugh or cry, and occasionally, what’s in their shopping bags. Thankfully, my people-watching at Vegas Village led to a degree in psychology rather than an arrest for voyeurism.

Today, 60 years later, I picture that young mom’s kids with their own bouncy grandkids … those black jacket guys with silver hair, or no hair, on Medicare … and that elderly couple together in eternity.

Life passes by quickly, and the people who file past us day in and day out are far from ordinary. Each has a unique story. God can use them to enhance our lives and teach valuable lessons. 

That’s one thing we writers, speakers, and leaders love about our Speak Up conferences. Our “best ever” is coming up in July and I can’t wait! Some folks will walk through the doors as first timers; others, “old timers.” Some come with a long list of writing and speaking credits; others, wide-eyed, wondering where to start. My excitement and prayers begin long before that day.

As one of the “old-timers,” I’ve had the privilege of connecting over the years with some of the finest, and “funnest,” folks on the planet. I’ve laughed and cried through messages from a stage and a podium, and from conversations at mentoring and meal tables. I have met, hugged, and prayed with precious women in a prayer corner, a lunch line, and a ladies’ room. 

I have been grateful for every encounter, every God-orchestrated moment, every story and truth shared that encouraged me and pointed folks to Jesus.

I watch and wonder what “magnificent creature” God will put in my path, and yours, today, to plant a new thought or spark a new interest or add some new dimension to our remaining days.

Here are three “Be” Attitudes—simple reminders as we prepare our hearts and minds for God’s surprise blessings:

1.  Be intentional about looking and listening—seeing beneath the surface. You just might find extraordinary treasure hidden in the hearts and stories of ordinary people. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance,  the Lord looks at the heart.  1 Samuel 16:7 NIV
2.  Be a friend. Find someone you haven’t yet met or known well and start up a friendly conversation. You may discover similar experiences, goals, or dreams from which to build a friendship. “Smiles are contagious, kindness is free.” Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, as… you are doing.”  1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV
3. Be a life-giver. Look for ways you can pour into others. By sharing Spirit-led insights and deep scriptural thoughts, we help each other to grow spiritually. As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. Proverbs 27:17 NLT

Putting on our spiritual “Son” glasses helps us begin to see others as the Lord sees them—not as ordinary, but extraordinary. I’m putting mine on now. Will you join me?

“Everyone has something extraordinary that can change you. A different perspective, a unique experience, a gift. We’re all ordinary people, but we are all extraordinary in our own way.”

~ Skip Pritchard

Question: How have you found “ordinary people” to be extraordinary gifts from God’s hand?

Did you know the Speak Up Conference offers incredible in-person extras for conferees?

This includes the chance to be published as a collaborative author! Writers who meet deadlines, follow submission guidelines, and submit to the editing process will be chosen for inclusion in a book titled, Glimpses of God’s Banquet Table by Living Parables, an imprint of EABooks Publishing. Visit the Attendee Opportunities page to learn more about this and other bonuses offered exclusively to in-person attendees.