September 26, 2010
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Sunday Devotional: Ask. Ask? ASK!
Programming note: Posts will be put up on Sundays at 5PM and Thursdays at 7PM regularly (EST). Other times are fairly unlikely. Christian stuff on Sundays, Friends series on Thursdays until it is done.
A few nights ago I talked to a friend on IM. In some ways, I really didn't want to. I had a lot of other things to do, and it was already late. But she opened by saying it had been a while since we talked, and so I didn't want to run off. I randomly asked her about her religious state. I knew she was somewhat agnostic, but has some Christian roots. It was a casual question, just as a throwaway. Quite honestly, I usually don't like to ask about people's spiritual condition anymore.
I don't want to say too much about what transpired afterward. But what happened was that she was able to share some spiritual phenomena that happened to her that she had kept a secret for a while, fearing that she would be shunned if she told. And it turns out, I was familiar with some of those phenomena, and was able to explain to her why it happened. Together, we both learned a lot. And I think that she has hope now, where she had none before.
I once failed my friend by not asking her enough questions when she was struggling with a dark secret. I asked her after that, what could I have done to know? She said "Ask more questions, I would have told you if you had just asked." This time I asked...and it made all the difference. I want to use this event to push more, to ask more deep questions. I know all the trivial ways to generate small talk. But I want to risk getting slapped in the face or pushed away in order to ask the questions that must be asked, questions that people long to answer if only someone would ask. The power of questions, as journalists and teachers know, is that they start a process of contemplation and action that is amazing to observe. Tap that power...and ask more questions about faith, love, and hope.
Comments (9)
I think you're on the right path.
Depends on the person... but as you shared, sometimes asking a question is all the person needs to hear to open up - and also realize that you are invested. Sometimes, not asking can imply not caring... Learning how to ask the right questions is something I'm learning ... thanks for sharing this one!
yes! awesome! =)
I think that's what drives us all apart; the fear of being judged and the fear of retribution for asking. Glad you both had a positive experience!
Totally agree w/ this. In the Scripture Jesus often asked questions of people. We not only need to ask others questions but also ask ourselves questions and listen to the Holy Spirit as He asks us questions... That's the only way we/others will ever come to know the thoughts and intents of the heart.
The risk of rejection ("slapped in the face") is terrifying for some people, but I am so grateful for those who are boldly compassionate enough to ask anyhow.
Thank you for the 1,000 eprops. Does it go directly into my credits? I'm a little confused on that.
yep, ask away!! i would have noticed how sometimes people would answer how they were doing by just saying "fine" i would push it and say, there is more. what's going on. thus they start to open up and pour it all out!!
Well. glad to see you back. I have been on a bit of a schedule too, and I find that it helps me stay consistent with my blogging.
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