Humanity or Habit

Are we as a society or a follower of Christ too self-indulged with our own daily agenda and to do's that we are blind to those around us? We find it polite to pass a co-worker in the hall, a cashier, a stranger in passing, or a courteous door holder to briefly say "hey, how are you?" But do we ever really mean it when we say it, do you ever hear the answer, or put a face to them? Has this type of "politeness" become merely habit and not a sincere gesture. Do you notice the expression on their face, can you tell if they look like they may be upset about something, extremelly excited about a recent event, or just told you they were on their way to hurt themselves or someone else? Are you too busy with the thoughts of all you have to get done, where you are going, or what has made you upset, sad, or angry?

Is a "hey, how are you?" a real act of humanity, a true sense of connection to another, the love for others as a child of God?
These type of "habits" can happen in your prayer life as well. We can find ourselves merely repeating the same words over and over each day, night. Although some repetitive prayer is positive. When they become words without meaning, desire, praise, surrender, faith, guidance seeking; the truth that lies deep within our heart, then we are treating God the same as a passing stranger. Does our relationship with God reflect every part of our lives?
Matthew 6:7-8 ESV    
“And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
For God did not send his Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross only for you. He took up the Cross for us all, all of humanity.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
He loves us all, each and every one. Shouldn't we treat others with the same love God pours out for us?
When you get to Heaven, will you recognize the faces of those you uttered a quick "hey, how are you?"
Are our worst habits really the temporary things of this world we put value on or are our worst habits against each other, even those we are being "polite" to?

Watch your thoughts, for they become words.
Watch your words, for they become actions.
Watch your actions, for they become habits.
Watch your habits, for they become character.
Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.