Boldness

It's often said that politics and religion are not to be discussed at the dinner table..along with any comments about the unsavory state of the mashed potatoes. We've heard that these things are best left at the doorstep. While this still allows many meaningful topics to be discussed in casual conversation, there is also the implied assumption that only simple, surface level, "how is the weather?" type banter is commonly welcomed. The gospel according to Ms. Manners has created a culture where each of us is often afraid to dive any deeper than an inquiry about sports teams, children, or storm fronts. Granted, upon introduction, I'm not suggesting we ask "Dan" about his recent colonoscopy or try to engage in a debate about the rapture, but this rule of safety in communication has left us paralyzed in some of our most precious relationships. I'm less concerned with politics, because my opinion is rarely represented by any one party, and frankly, I often don't care enough to spin my wheels about some new change in policy. But, when was the last time you asked some of your best friends, or moreover, your family members about the state of their spirit? "How can I pray for you?" "Would you pray for me?" or other, maybe more complex, questions about a loved one's spiritual walk are words we can barely muster the courage to utter. How do we even begin to engage in this type of conversation? I'm praying daily for boldness; a type of boldness rooted in the confidence of the Holy Spirit in my life. I'm encouraged by the words I read recently in Acts 4. When we follow Christ, the Holy Spirit will speak through us:

"Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: "Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. He is " 'the stone you builders rejected, which has become the capstone. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus."

This is my prayer, that others would take note that I have been with Jesus.

On a related note, for some outstanding chats about engaging in conversations with others, check out Shepherd of the Hills', a community of faith in Porter Ranch, CA, recent series called "My Faith Now." Specifically, the podcasts about Mormonism and Islam. While these are great resources for learning about other religions, they are an even better reminder on how to engage in meaningful, Christ-like, conversation.