Cinderella Savior

A Cinderella Savior
 They were like sheep without a shepherd. (Matthew 9:36)

 It happened several years ago at Disney World. A crowd had gathered inside Cinderella’s Castle to get a glimpse of the princess’s arrival. Children everywhere craned their necks to see when she would appear through the gates of the castle. Several bounced on their father’s shoulders in anticipation.

Suddenly she appeared. Cinderella. The girl who played her was perfect for the part—young and blonde and beautiful. Her smile lit up the crowd as she passed through the middle of them, waving and shaking hands.

 Far to one side a young boy stood beside his older brother with his head bowed. He only glanced at the beautiful princess, not daring to draw near. His face was disfigured, just like his shattered self-image.

 By accident Cinderella happened to catch a glimpse of the boy out of the corner of her eye. He looked away, but she didn’t. She immediately began making her way toward him, parting the crowd slowly as she walked. When she reached the young boy, she bent down until they were at eye level. Gently she kissed him on the cheek. She took his hand, whispered into his ear, smiled, and then returned to middle of the crowd.

 It was a simple but beautiful act. And a perfect illustration of how Jesus sees you and me. “Wherever he went, he healed people of every sort of disease and illness,” records Matthew. “He felt great pity for the crowds that came, because their problems were so great and they didn’t know where to go for help. They were like sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:35-36).

 Jesus doesn’t see us as we are—sinful and disfigured people. He sees us for what we need. We need a Savior. We need help. We need a kiss on the cheek and a gentle touch. We need a kind word of compassion. We need someone loving and forgiving to hold our hand and show us how much we are worth.

 We need Jesus. That’s why he came. And that’s why we love him so.  

Today’s Reading  Matthew 9:35-36  
Reflection  When have you felt ugly and disfigured because of your sin? Do you find comfort knowing that Jesus sees past your transgressions and into your heart?