Jetsam

I snapped the picture above as I waited to check out at the grocery store. Every time I check out, I take note of the jetsam tossed overboard by shoppers at the last minute. I try to figure out the story behind each out-of-place item.

The papaya was tossed at the last minute when the shopper decided to change dinner pans and eat out tonight. The cotton swabs were left by a family who was on a tight budget. They were considered a luxury. Sorry kids, dirty ears. The banana bread was left by a person feeling a little guilty shopping on an empty stomach. It was to be consumed in the car before getting home! The Enquirer was read for the gossip but never purchased. After all, what would people think if they of us if they saw an Enquirer in our home. Bean dip. Gas. Need I say more? Almond Joy. Junior  tried to slip it in at the last minute. Mom knew better. She always scans for illicit items the kids want from the checkout aisle.

Truth is, I have no idea what happened. There is something about people that, when faced with the appearance of things, draw conclusions that are not based in reality but, rather, based in our own prejudices.

Jesus says, don’t judge. Forgive, yes. But don’t judge another person. I think he meant do pass judgment on a person’s motives or nature.

Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned.

Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Luke 6:37

Write off no one today, including yourself, no matter how tempted you are. Only God knows the whole story. Leave judgment to God.