My former church had a saying, “Love people where they are and help them to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ.” Great stuff, yeah? I mean, if you’re a Christian it’s a good sentiment and perhaps something we should all aspire to do. And if you’re not a Christian, then I still offer that ‘loving people where they are and encouraging them to grow’ isn’t a terrible goal.
How do you love someone where they are, though, if you don’t know where they are?
We must listen. We must actively listen so that we understand and gain insight. Conversations or, worse, ‘offering advice’ doesn’t allow us to hear someone effectively and see their worldview. Allowing someone a platform and an audience lets them to be heard.
People gripe about how others are always ranting and raving about this or that. Maybe they’re ranting and raving because they don’t feel ‘heard.’
Next time you encounter an agitated soul or a hurting person listen to them. Don’t put yourself in harm’s way–you’re not daft–but with an average person who’s having a bad day, or week, or life, listen to them. Find out where they are and what’s going on with them. Then, love them there.
It’s not that hard. I don’t have agree with someone to love them. I just have to know where they are and encourage them to grow…and for me, that would be for them to grow in their relationship with Jesus.