And the disciples came and said to Him, “Why do You speak to them in parables?” Jesus answered them, “To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been granted.
Matthew 13:11
We often forget after years of following Christ where we came from. We impress with our scripture memory and cast a net full of theology upon many an unbeliever or backslider. Much of the time our” Christian-ese” makes little sense to them. Yet, Christ knew the heart of those He spoke to so He talked to them in a language they could understand. Today it seems we focus much on the words of Christ and their meaning or interpretation, without ever considering His actual delivery or the handling of hearts.
Likewise, if Paul knew He had to become all things to all people that He might win some…when shall we follow his example as well…for the sake of the Kingdom. It’s the foolish things that confound the wise… He does not always move in the same way with each person…for each person is unique. He knows their language! What will make their heart jump! There have been times when the only thing Christ required of me to draw a heart to His was simply to sing “Jesus loves me…” While I sang..He saved.
I did my part…then He did His. Don’t complicate it..listen to the Holy Spirit, He knows exactly what each heart needs. Many times it’s the little things….I’ve seen Him do wonders with tiaras and feather boas placed on a precious woman or girl in need of love. Much of the time we hurl scripture like a dagger when Christ has a different…more personal…. approach and the language we use must be that which they understand. When He spoke to fishermen…He taught them about catching fish. He uses many stories about farming, etc. Many have not yet been GIVEN or GRANTED the mysteries of the gospel yet…so we must meet them where they are…
Sometimes…we must clothe and feed them…before their heart is ready for Jesus…many times we take a short cut..but the Lord tells us plainly to meet needs in a way that will then open hearts to Him.
Talk to me as did The Christ
In parables if you must
But meet me where I am
With a mere elementary love.
The big and lofty approach
Confuses me at best
So speak to me as Paul
Being All to win SOME is best..
You see I see not thy heart
Just words spoken in haste
It seems you speak of much love
But are really preoccupied these days.
For I have nothing to eat
My clothes are old and but worn
I see you dress really nice
Yet mine are soiled and torn.
Your knowledge is sure to impress
Yet I am still thirsty and dry
So feed me as Christ did His sheep
In a language that pierces my cries.
1/16/2016
