We’ve seen the promise of growth that can happen when we stay where it’s awkward. But how do we endure it? Paul’s encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus illustrates the importance of humility – not thinking too much or too little of ourselves, but rather not thinking of ourselves at all.
Continue readingContempt and Kindness
We’re learning to value empathy as a culture, but just being able to understand another person isn’t enough. Understanding without connection leads to contempt. David’s encounters with Bathsheba, Uriah and Nathan show us why we need no just understanding, but kindness.
Continue readingYour Growing Edge
Especially when we discuss sensitive topics like race or gender, things get awkward fast. This is what experts call our ‘growing edge’. This is the place we have the most potential to transform because it’s where the gap between where we are and who we want to be is in the light. The story of Judah and Tamar shows us what it looks like when we brave our growing edge.
Continue readingThe Gift of Awkwardness
Why do we feel awkwardness? And when we feel it, what, exactly, are we feeling? The first awkward moment in the Bible, Genesis 3, shows us both the danger and opportunity of awkwardness. How can we refuse to hide or flee, and instead stay in the awkward promise of the cringe?
Continue readingThe Terror of Self-Reflection
There’s a gap between how we see ourselves and how everyone else experiences us. Mostly that gap is invisible – until it’s not, and then things get awkward. But in awkwardness is a gift: to see beyond our self-deception to who we really are. And if we see ourselves through God’s eyes, we find the path toward healing and wholeness. Our Lenten journey begins here!
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