Face to Face

Although I have much to say to you, I do not wish to use paper and ink.  Instead, I hope to visit you and speak to you face to face so that our joy may be complete.  2 John 1:12

If you were asked to come up with five current events happening throughout the world how long would it take you?  Given the speed and availability of today’s technology I’m betting you could complete the task within seconds.  At the snap of a finger we can check a score, get a recipe, listen to a song or find a prayer and none of it requires personal contact.  While somewhat fascinating, it’s also a bit scary!

The little lovelies have been learning the names and good works of Jesus’ Apostles the past few days and many were amazed at what these twelve men were able to do.  Some lovingly pointed out how happy they are that their parents didn’t name them Bartholomew or Thaddeus and all of them agree that these guys did some pretty amazing stuff.  The little lovelies had a hard time imagining how they could teach and lead thousands and thousands with no internet, airplanes or even cars.  As one asked in a puzzled voice, “So, they just had to walk and talk and walk and talk and sometimes get in a boat; that’s it; that’s how they started the whole church?” Simply put, he was exactly right.  It was all personal contact, storytelling and testimony. It really gave me cause to stop and think!

I asked the kids what they thought would have happened if the Apostle’s had decided they were tired of telling the story of Jesus? “What if they had simply decided they wanted to stay at home and keep the good news to themselves?”  I asked.  After thinking for a minute, one little girl said, “That just wouldn’t happen because Jesus was a good teacher and He taught the Apostles how to share so they had to mind Him and share the story.”  Then she said, “It’s a good thing I wasn’t one of the Apostles because sometimes I’m a little bad at sharing!” I giggled but she hit the nail right on the head!  I suppose we’re all guilty of being a “little bad at sharing” when it comes to our faith story. 

I did an informal survey of some high school/young adult aged folks not long ago and the most popular answer to the question, “What does this world need more of?” was FRIENDLY PEOPLE! Holy Cow Batman…talk about a giant leap backwards…personal contact and not more technology…what…how can that be?  I’ve never heard anyone say they always enter a room and look for the crankiest person to sit next to!  We are made for human contact and most of us prefer the friendly kind, so instead of just looking for it, why not become the giver of it?  Whether you are a Catholic or not, the names John Paul II and Francis more than likely ring a bell.  They are two very holy and influential men of our time and if you really boil things down to the bottom of the pot, the reason for the overwhelming popularity of these two Popes is simple; they radiate the kindness and behavior of Christ to everyone.  Unless you have been living under a rock for the last year, you have  likely seen more than one picture of a very humble Pope Francis embracing someone with great sincerity and genuine love.  His simple, humble compassion touches us.

My friends, WE are called to be Christ in the world.  We are the disciples of this time and instead of being overwhelmed by the task we need to embrace it!  God doesn’t call the equipped, He equips the called and He’s calling you and He’s calling me to spread His good news.  Thank goodness it starts with simple, basic personal conversation just like that mentioned in the passage from John’s letter.  So put down your phone, iPad, iPod, laptop or tablet and sit with someone and have a conversation…and include the star of the show…Jesus! If you’re not sure how to bring Him up in conversation, simply introduce others to Him through your actions. Don’t worry about offending someone by mentioning the name of your Savior; worry more about offending your Savior by not mentioning His name!

A Seed To Plant:  Bring this scripture to life.  Make a list of 3 people you will sit down and have an actual visit with this week.  For bonus points, pick at least one person who desperately needs a visit from a friendly face!

Blessings on your day!