I listened to a friend tell of one of a visit to a church. This is not the family’s custom. In this family’s culture, there was an occasional visit to a temple. Nothing ever became a spiritual pattern in anyone’s life, except for the practice on unbelief. One outcome of this is that on the subject of God, each is often silent.
As the story unfolded, I was struck by the words and the questions lying within.
The narrative begins in a moment of turning to God in a crisis. With a few edits for readability, it went like this.
“I guess I was praying to ‘God’, “Please, I am not at fault. Can you let the police know?”
I was praying although I have no idea which God I was praying to.
The other week, when I went to church, I did enjoy the singing. My enjoyment ended when the speaker stood up on the stage suddenly and began shouting. I think he was trying to catch attention narrating a story. I just know that it made my headache. I also know that the story did not sell me on the idea of believing in miracles.”
It is easy to be critical of others, especially from a distance. In this case, I could be defensive, imaging the purpose of the story and the various techniques. However, I do not find either reaction helpful. I do note that I see myself in the role of various characters in the narrative.
When I want someone attention, what do I do? In this case, the speakers stood up and began shouting. In another, “standing on the barracks steps, Paul turned and held his arms up. A hush fell over the crowd as Paul began to speak. He spoke in Hebrew.” (Acts 21.40) There is no one answer. There is value in understanding one’s intent, audience, and desired outcome.
When I tell a story, have I opened myself up to the way another understands? I know my point, but what are others hearing?
Being bold is more than volume.
