In many countries, the ability of a consumer to express a “do not call” to service providers is a right. I have talk to individuals informally, asking them why they have gone to the lengths they have gone to strike banks off the list of who is permissioned to call unless it is specifically about a service issue.
Top on the informal list of reasons are two statements. First, banks tend to call at the wrong time. The second is trust. Banks have lost their trusted position. Gone are the days where banks were here to service individuals and families. Today, my informal focus group believe banks have an agenda that is rarely in their best interest. Instead, they push product and sales.
As I listened to the telephone stories, often ironic and sad, I found the connection to describing church or formal religion eerily familiar. Neither is a trusted relationship. Formal religion cannot be trusted! Their intent is not seen as people centric (in my interest), it often shows up at the worst possible time (funerals for sure but there are other bad moments), and each seems to have an agenda that is not aligned with mine.
With banks and many churches, it is hard to disagree with the sentiment. Both are increasingly non-relevant in this digitally connected, relationship thirsty world in which we live. In both situations, the external actions are more important than the heart felt relationship and journey together.
I know it does not need to be that way, in either situation. Banks can be in the business of service and looking after their customers. I believe it is the most effective strategy to sustained profitability. Formal religion could take a hard look at itself and pivot. When the testimony driven by compassionate relationships that include all, honor and respect diversity, and are ever mindful of the needs of others, conversations are relevant and intentions helpful! It is then that one can say “His [Divine] love has taken over our lives; God’s faithful ways are eternal. Hallelujah!” (Psalm 117.2) Permission follows trust.
