Are You Interested In Being Loved
I often wrestle with the idea of evangelism. Is it a conversation, a lifestyle, a message, a story, or all of the above? My desire in exploring the concept is simply to connect in some ways with people’s hearts.
And over time I have come to understand that what draws the heart in like no other is the simple question, “Are you interested in being loved?” So much of the journey in following Jesus begins not with practicing love, but in practicing being loved. Because it is when we embrace love that we can then love.
Are we willing to tear down the obstacles we’ve created to engage relationship with the one who created us? Are we willing to explore our own brokenness in the face of a God who could condemn us but instead chose to restore us? Are we willing to let go of our brokenness which is a terrible story to live in and discover the life that Jesus offers, one defined by love and trust?
The choice is up to you?
I wasn’t expecting to read what you wrote with the title you gave it. I’ve only recently started to give the word “evangelism” a second chance. I get frustrated with what it can often mean in certain Christian crowds. You’re right, it’s really difficult to truly show love to others without knowing what it feels like.
Good thoughts, good thoughs. Thank you for sharing.
Good thoughts Jonathan. I wrestle with this as well. There’s just so much baggage attached to that word. Sometimes I think we would do well to come up with a different word altogether.
I was thinking just this morning that I’m not interested in evangelism anymore. I want to share Christ, but my old ideas of evangelism fall so far short. I think my old, religious way of evangelism was more about seeking validation. I think I have to let go of that completely to know grace and life in Christ, and then, God willing, my life will be a story of grace that touches others with hope and life.