FIRST IMPRESSIONS

"What are you known for?"

Social perception is both a complicated and simple process. Complicated due to the fact that our perception of other people is affected by a multitude of factors.  Not alone are we affected directly by the information we gain from direct experience of the person we meet, but also the information we get from the "grapevine" or from our own "projection" of ourselves on the person. Not to mention the effect of our environment and inner "state".

But as complex our minds form impressions, we simply come up with "snap judgements", all be it "rashly done", to provide us the necessary resource to base decisions for future interaction on. Therefore, complicated or simple, how we are perceived by others, is important.

How are you perceived by others?  As people are entitled to their own opinion and one cannot please everybody, it may be fair to say that we still do influence whatever impression is left in others' minds about ourselves. Either we use masks or come forth with authenticity, whatever others perceive of us will determine the quality of our relationships and influence.

As Christians, we are all called to "Make Disciples" and therefore hold relationships important.  Impressions play a crucial role in the establishment and maintenance of any relationship, more so a faith-based one. As the Gospel message is that of "Love", the critical question remains, "Are we known for our Love? or our Faith? or our Kindness?"  What are you known for?

Friends, welcome to our series Best Preaching Ever with Talk 15 entitled Eye Problem.  Get ready for the powerful words of Jesus on "judgement" and how we perceive others. Let the Spirit enlighten and instruct you as to how to regard persons and at the same time console you with knowing how our Lord invites us to His Mercy. Let the Lord give you the Grace to answer the question...

"What are you known for?"

May your Miracles Happen,

Bro J