Do not show favouritism! Imagine some kind of social situation in which somebody who has wealth is assumed to be far more interesting than somebody without. It’s devastating that we see this today in our communities, whether money, career or personality. It can be easy to be so interested in one person that we end up ignoring another and cast them to the side. But how do we determine that they are less interesting if we don’t get to know them? We can’t – and they aren’t!
It’s not just about our physical action towards somebody, but our outlook to. We are all part of one church and one body however undoubtedly, we will associate with some more than others would. The worship group may be more friendly with each other than a worship band member and one of the young people. Why? Because we have similar interests and therefore form relationships more easily.
But if we aren’t making an effort to be interested in others, to get to know them and simply treat them with the same investment, we will very easily find ourselves diving and people will become isolated. God has created everyone and placed them in their situations – we must look beyond our own circles! We are to be an extroverted people!
What does it mean to be an extroverted people? Perhaps you envision a body of people who constantly seek to share and learn from one another. Being an extroverted people is about investing time in the lives of others and encouraging the quieter character.
“Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has God not chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and inherit the kingdom he promised to those who love him?”(James 2:5)
James is essentially saying, “Don’t you get it?!” Our faith is centred on Christ and in him, we are God’s children – coheirs with Christ! Our identity is Jesus and in him, we are richly blessed! And this wealth, is the knowledge of God’s love. Worldly views may label somebody as boring, poor, unworthy, ugly, weak… But in the knowledge of all that Christ is, we should be training our eyes to see the truth: God only creates unique, valued, beautiful people with their own unique and interesting story! Therefore relationship with everybody is valuable, and in all people there is a rich blessing to be unearthed!
We shouldn’t be investing all of our time in those who outwardly seem rich, good-looking, confident, interesting etc. Rather may we turn to the humble, quiet, less-confident so that we may learn their story, encourage them and build one another up to come to know the richness of Christ living in them!
What does it look like to invest humbly? Perhaps it’s as simple as starting with hello, sitting with somebody different, knocking on your neighbours door or even having somebody over for a meal, to encourage, counsel or grow with them. Its about actively asking “how are you?” Or, “Who are you?”
We must acknowledge our profession as disciples – to be humble, seeking Jesus and looking towards holiness. Yes we are to be extroverted but also humble. Placing the two hand in hand is a challenge but a vital balance.
Who will you invest in this week?
Eleanor ♥
