the message - part deux

So, if we learn to better send our 'message' to people with whom we come in contact, what's next?

well, that in itself is a pretty tall order.... and one which I anticipate wrestling with till I go Home.

But, as the Spirit gives us opportunity after opportunity to not only 'send a message' as a first impression, we better be ready for the next (second, third, forty-third) 'impression', right?

What do we do then? when we have opportunity to study and teach and discuss and shepherd and learn with people, what is important?

As we talk to our Baptist friends, is it important to discuss instrumental music?

As we spend time with our Methodist friends, should we study premillenialism?

...or (fill in the religious/theological difference here) with your (fill in denomination here) friend?

I dunno.... just asking the question...

I know this: it seems that most religious discussions tend to begin (and end) with the differences between the discussors' denomonational beliefs.... and the 'end' part is what concerns me...

What would happen if we sought to begin on common ground?

what would happen, for instance, if we started a discussion with, say, our Baptist friends about the Sovereign God and His coming to earth to walk among us and die for us and be raised for us?

what would happen if we started a conversation with our Catholic friends by acknowledging that the Catholic church has, BY FAR, the most amazing and comprehensive ministry for orphans and unwanted children?

what would the result be if, instead of concentrating on our differences, we worked hand in hand with our friends from different religious backgrounds in a soup kitchen or free clinic?

here's what happens: you strengthen friendship.. you build relationship... and walls are obliterated.

and guess what: then you can discuss almost anything! and remain friends...

and though I am an infant in this way, the most magical thing has happened to me when I allow God to lead me like that... a lot of the 'things' I viewed as important are...

just not.