I am not able to identify with brain surgeons or
international diplomats. How about you? It would be most uncomfortable to be
forced into a situation where it was essential to rub elbows with the very rich
and famous, as I would have nothing in common with them. Having to mingle with a world class physicists or mathematician would be awkward at best.
Put me in a room with psychologists or teachers on the other
hand, and I would be in heaven, so to speak. There would be endless topics of
discussion and subjects for me to pick their brains about, and then sit back
and ponder as I formulated my next inquiry.
We all have a sense of comfort when with those we have
things in common with. Why then do some Christians feel the need to push their
beliefs on those who do not have an ear for what they proclaim? Perhaps it is
all in the approach, not empathizing with the other person considering their
background or paradigm (set of ideas used for understanding something) can
bring out negative feelings. No one wants to be preached to about a subject
they feel uncomfortable with. It is unlikely we are going to change the
lifestyle of another through proclamation. Most humans thrive on relationships.
We do not hear what others have to say until we first know they care.
If any of us are going to make a difference in the life of
another, we must meet them where they are as Jesus did. He humbled himself. He
dwelled among sinners and lepers. He broke bread with the undesirable and spoke
to those shunned by their communities. Jesus lived the life of a poor man, and
dwelled amidst those like him.
Jesus modeled the perfect, sinless life. We cannot even
think about comparing to him, but we can grow where we are planted, spreading the seeds
of love and compassion, as we reach out to those near to us. We need not travel
the world to make a difference. Often we can simply "Just Walk Across The Room."
Read/Listen to Mark 5: 17-20
Review the Book “Just Walk Across the Room” by: Bill Hybels
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