Take a moment to stop and consider the difference between a window and a mirror.

A window, of course, is something you look through. It allows you to see out; obstacles, hazards, scenery, people – it’s all on display if you care to look. On the other hand, a mirror allows you to see only one thing: you. No matter how close to or far away from it you get, you will always be in the picture somehow.

Both are made out of glass. But a mirror has a thin layer of silver behind it, that makes all the difference between seeing other people and seeing only yourself.

Sin is like that. No matter how thin (or thick!) its presence in our lives, it spreads itself out so that instead of being able to see the needs, desires and gifts of others, we see only ourselves. At best, we might see someone else in the picture, but only in relation to ourselves… How can they help me? Am I better or worse than they are? What will I gain from helping them?

Pray that God will turn your mirrors into windows, and that he will allow you, like Alice, to step through the looking glass!