Perfect

I was quite amused recently during a telephone interview, as my husband and I were investigating a change in our health insurance coverage.  Our contact went through a series of questions, to gain information on our current doctors and medications, trying to pair us with the best plan.  During our conversation, after each question we answered, our interviewer would respond, “Perfect” and go onto the next question.  I noticed his use of the word almost from the beginning; and with each exclamation of “perfect” the smile on my face became wider and a little chuckle appeared under my breath.  I even nudged my husband, pointing out this obvious consistency.  But it also made me feel like I was doing a great job in completing the needed information.

Later, it made me think about this interaction.  When I am going through my day, attending to my many activities, chores and interaction to those around me, would Jesus respond, “Perfect”, acknowledging I acted as He would desire?  What would my scoreboard (if there was one in Heaven) look like?  Each time that Jesus responds “Perfect”, does that cross out one of my disappointing moments?  The reality is, Jesus doesn’t keep score.  In addition, our definition of perfect on this Earth, even, yes, from my insurance guy, is not what Jesus’ interpretation of perfect would be.

Let’s face it, many times we try too hard to be what we consider perfect.  We try desperately to please others.  We even strive to act accordingly to others definition of perfect, hoping that will ultimately earn us bonus points with God when we stand before Him.  Thank God today that’s not how it works!

Maybe our focus should be not expecting others around us to be perfect, since we ourselves fall short.  How often during our day are we judging the people with whom we come in contact?  It may be their appearance is not to our liking, or they weren’t perfect in how they interacted with another human being.  Or the ultimate – they didn’t do it the right way – our way.  Who are we to judge?  I think I will pray a little harder on this challenge Jesus has given me this week.  Will you join me?

“Jesus, you know my every imperfection, but yet, you still extend  your mercy to me today.  I humbly ask for  your forgiveness when I stumble and judge others.  Remind me always that you created every one of us in your image.  Amen

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is good and acceptable to the will of God.  Romans 12:2