Keep It Simple Sister

Do we make life and ministry too hard? A friend and I were discussing this, and other, issues today over a cup of coffee. She’s encountering a shift in ministry responsibility and I believe, because of her ability to think creatively and scriptually, she can be used as a catalyst for some very important growth in areas where her leadership style will flourish.

I shared with her, and now with you, that sometimes we need to allow a “product” to speak for itself. Sure, there are times when we stick the “new and improved” label on things - and there’s nothing wrong with that. That’s good marketing. However, we need to be very careful not to “hyper” hype what we are presenting. I’ve worked in the food business in some capcity for most of my life. I grew up in it and there are some theories that apply in both business and the ministry in the church.

At a food show/trade show event we do a great display. Colorful, creative, visually appetizing - but all the “pretty” stuff won’t mean a thing if the “taste” isn’t there. Hope that makes sense. I can “lead” the consumer to the sampling table, but if the product isn’t primo, then it’s a major letdown.

Now, if there was any “product” (and I really don’t like using that term - but you understand the context) that is premium quality, flawless, incredible - that is Jesus Christ. The Bible tells us to “taste and see that the LORD is good”……..see, the proof is in the taste of the product. Our souls are “hungry” for the Bread of Life. When you taste something that you’re longing for, you have one of those “that’s it” moments. And no matter what you “eat” thereafter, you will never be able to satisfy that specific “need” apart from that authentic recipe, as it were.

Perhaps I’m attempting to draw too many comparisons, but I think that there is a simple principle here that is often overlooked in the church today.

As we seek to reach out to lost and hurting people in our community, let’s keep a few things in mind. Folks don’t gravitate toward “stale” food”. Fresh stuff can come in either a “traditional family recipe” or “an innovative approach” - we enjoy both in the area of the culinary arts - why not the church? Also, “eating” requires active participants………even babies “open up” to be fed - but we wouldn’t want to feed a baby sub-par, stale, unsplendid food. Nor should we be satisfied with availing that “nourishment” in the context of the church.

Also, some of the most enjoyable “eating” experiences for me have come when I am connecting relationally with another person. A romantic dinner with Bob, laughing and communicating with my accountability group, a meal of comfort after a funeral, and yes sometimes, a quick bite with the kids at Chic-fil-a. (my favorite “fast” food environment) - nourishment in both the physical/emotional and spiritual sense is so strongly connected to relationships.

When I have the privilege of teaching either a group of folks (small enough to be interactive) or meet with a lady one on one,
I ask them to tell me about themselves……..even shy folks will usually give you a glimpse of something in their hearts. I ask the LORD to help me relate what they are saying to a character in His Word. People identify with other people. If you are talking to someone who’s heart is in pieces because they had an affair, tell them about King David. If someone is wondering when God’s going to do what they believe He said He’d do - talk about Abraham and Sarah. If someone is being falsely accused of inappropriate actions and their reputation is being destroyed, talk to them about Joseph. You get the idea.

Contextual Simplicity is the art of humbly allowing God to work through His Word, His Spirit and your submissive heart to present truth to a seeking soul. You need to be prepared by spending time in His Word. If you have a hard time grasping concepts, then ask someone who’s further along in their Christian journey to mentor/teach you.

I was reminded again today, that God speaks great volumes in a small still voice. However, when we hide His Word in our hearts we have the tools to discern what His Spirit is saying to us. I had several unusual “encounters” today. God was keeping me active and it was incredible - but it all started last night as God brought Micah 6:8 to my mind. That “word” from Him was hidden in my heart and He decided to “take it off the shelf” and remind me of it. Word of God Speak!!!

Keep it simple.

Peace - Lisa