I think I have a sign on my forehead that says, “Talk to me and tell me your life story.” I don’t see it, but complete strangers seem to, and they take me up on it. I use it to my advantage, although I have to admit there are times that I wish it was not there. Sometimes because people will tell me things that they really shouldn’t share. Then there are the times I feel this way because I’m busy and I have things to do, and it’s just not convenient (Lord, teach me to be more patient).
Yesterday, I ran to Home Depot to get some plumber’s putty because I was installing a new garbage disposal in our sink, and I realized mid-install that I did not have any. So back to The Depot I went (Can you see how I was just there for one thing, and it was supposed to be an in-and-out kind of situation?). I parked, went in, got the item, and headed to the checkout. It was surprisingly busy, and I had to wait my turn.
The lady in front of me made eye contact, and she saw the sign; soon, I was listening to her and all the details of why she was there and why she had to buy the storage tubs in her cart. Then she slipped in these words, and my ears perked up, “There is no God!” she said. “If there was, then why is there suffering?” Instead of giving her a three-point sermon. I told her that was a really good question, and I would love to visit with her more and see if we can both come up with an answer. I told her my name, and we exchanged information and scheduled a time next week to discuss this age-old question. I realized she was not looking for an argument; she was searching for answers because she herself was suffering.
When talking to people, we would be wise not to put up our fists and gear ourselves up for a theological fight. Our kindness, patience, and love for the lost can go a long way. Showing interest in a person might open the door for us to be able to share the bible, the gospel, and the hope that we have for why we believe in God.
but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;
~ 1 Peter 3:15 ~
I believe the Lord was teaching me a lesson last night. Be patient, Alex. People need to feel valued for who they are, and if they feel like you are a righteous zealot rushing through from one thing to the next, then they will not share with you their life story and, therefore, the opportunities for you to teach might not ever come.
If my garbage disposal had never stopped working, then I wonder, would I have ever run into this person? But that is another question for another time (Sunday’s sermon is on God’s providence. Some join us for worship, and let’s talk about it).
God loves you, and so do I,
Alexander Mills