We Are Not as Different as We Think We Are

So, we are NOT as different as we think we are. We tend to think in differences. Why? Because our differences make us feel special.

 

And we absolutely SHOULD feel special. We should recognize that God "threw away the mold" when He made each one of us. Every single person, from Adam and Eve, all the way through the pages of history, to you and me, every single one is unique. You are His handiwork, a masterpiece of eternal significance. You are the ONLY YOU there will ever be! When we pause to consider that there have been well over 100 billion people on this earth (estimates vary), and that every single person is different from the next, this is a staggering testimony to the creativity of a limitless God!

In today's world, however, many times we focus so much on these differences that we allow them to become divisive. I think it would benefit us to explore all the ways in which we are alike.

Such is the purpose of this post.

A few months ago, I met and began partnering with a mission-focused community of Christ followers in Abilene, Texas. It is not a partnership I would have ever imagined, and let me explain why.

You see, I was raised strict Assembly of God, and have long gravitated towards churches where the music was loud (the more guitars and drums on stage, the better), the preaching was intense, and the praying was loud AND intense!

Now, I should probably point out, that this Abilenian community is a Church of Christ. From my understanding of the Churches of Christ, the music is subdued (usually a cappella), the preaching is methodical, and the praying is subdued AND methodical!

This Assembly-of-God girl is the lead worship minister at Hope Church of Christ.

You may ask, "How's that workin' out for you?!"

Honestly, this has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

How can this be? How can we get past the differences, and work together towards a common goal?

First of all, we have much in common. We love Jesus. We love our families. We enjoy having fun. We like to eat (a lot!). We love one another. And we all want to feel loved and significant. And this is just for starters!

Secondly, at the risk of sounding contradictive to myself, we DO recognize our differences. There is even the occasional lighthearted tease. There is no eggshell-walking, but a healthy mutual respect.

Finally, and most importantly, is that we have a common goal. We are seeking to know the Lord, in a deeper way, to be led by the Holy Spirit, wherever He leads. We are pursuing God together, and Helping Others Pursue Eternity.

Just a quick rabbit-trail here for my fellow worship leaders...

Why is it that so many of us have such a tough time serving the vision of our leaders in the church? From style of music, to platform dress, to "sloppy-wet-kiss" or "unforseen-kiss?" How many worship leaders have outside jobs, where we serve the boss? Whatever he or she wants, is fine and dandy, whether we're serving up alcoholic drinks or selling used cars. Why is it, then, when we walk into the church, we think it's ALL ABOUT US? If it has anything to do with money, then let's examine our hearts. If it has anything to do with ego, then let's examine our hearts. If it has anything to do with anything, let's examine our hearts. If we cannot serve, we cannot lead.

Back on track now, to the purpose of this post.

Next time you see the guy on the street, at the coffee shop, at your house of worship, at your job, or in Walmart, I challenge you to see that person as one who has many things in common with you. See a brother, a mother, a student. See one who shares the same needs and desires, the same pains and brokenness.

Really see. See one who bears the image of God.

Connect.

Smile.

Love.

...(God) made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth (Act 17:26).


10 (You) have put on the new self who is being renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him— 11 a renewal in which there is no distinction between Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and freeman, but Christ is all, and in all. 14 Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity (Col 3:10,11,14).

We are not as different as we think we are.

How have you connected with someone who's different from you? When was the last time you made friends with a perfect stranger, for no other reason than to get acquainted? Your comments are appreciated.

Peace,


Davina