I am a project manager by trade. One of my favorite things to do when faced with an unknown challenge is to find the root cause. Then I can strategize and make a plan to solve the problem.
Project management methodology has several ways to find the root cause, but my favorite is the 5 Whys. The 5 Whys involves repeatedly asking ‘why’ when faced with a problem, aiming to uncover the root cause by moving beyond surface-level symptoms. This method not only applies in professional settings but also holds significance in our personal interactions.
Let’s face it, we tend to judge the symptom rather than finding out the root cause of the symptom. For example, serval weeks ago, I told you about a gentleman I met who found himself addicted to drugs and living on the street. When we encounter people who are living that reality, we tend to judge them instead of getting to know the why: the root of their pain.
God knew the root cause of people’s problems; the reason for their despair, hopelessness, animosity: sin and the separation from God because of the sin.
But God had compassion on His creation, so He had a plan to save the world: Jesus.
Jesus tells us why He came to the world, when He said,
”I will not judge those who hear Me but don’t obey Me, for I have come to save the world and not to judge it.“ John 12:47 NLT
Jesus doesn’t condemn or accuse us to the Father, nor does He seek vengeance for our actions at this moment. His purpose in coming was not to judge the world but to save it. In His initial arrival, He assumes the role of a Savior, refraining from accusing or condemning anyone. The judgment is reserved for another day when righteousness will prevail.
You see, the only difference between me and the gentleman I met was I accepted Jesus as my Savior and began a journey of unconditional love and freedom through Christ.
So the next time we encounter a someone who is different than us, down and out, or seems too far gone, instead of judging them, let’s have compassion for them enough to ask why and point them to the one who came to save them: Jesus.
“Jesus, thank You for Your salvation to me and the rest of mankind. Thank You that you had compassion on me instead of judging me. Open my eyes to see people the way You do: through the lens of love and compassion and not judgement. I want to point people to the hope and love You have for them. In Your name I ask, Amen.”
As you reflect on the power of understanding the ‘why’ in life, I invite you to share your thoughts or personal experiences in the comments below. Let’s build a community of understanding and compassion. Additionally, if you found this post meaningful, consider sharing it with someone who might benefit from the message of unconditional love and the hope found in Jesus. Together, let’s inspire positive change in the way we approach challenges and connect with those around us.