Reach for them, those who are about you. My words and ways are more. Your words to others are the pathway to understanding. Converse, that they may know a follower. Speak to them, that they may have a common place to walk with one of My own. If you do not speak to them, they will hear not My voice through you. I did not preach to all. It was in the exchange at leisure, over the table, and on foot – these were the times of brief connections. Simple conversations establish foundations that greater exchange will build, but you must speak, that your voice is known to their mind and then their heart. Of the common discourse first, as the threat grows nil, then deeper as I prompt. Many may be the years until the heart is ready. Share life, that each gentle interaction a different plow silently turns up the hardened earth. Do not draw away from those who do not know My ways; as you draw near to them does the darkness flee.
John 4:7-9 – A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink.” (For his disciples had gone away into the city to buy food.) The Samaritan woman said to him, “How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?”
Bottom Line: To many, reaching out to our coworkers, especially if they are a great deal different than us, can be difficult unless we have good reason. There are many people we pass by each day who God may want to influence , but we haven’t had the time, or desire to introduce ourselves to someone so different than ourselves. Having that first simple interaction. taking the time to listen, grabbing lunch together and talking about common things, paves the way, possibly, for something greater down the line. Jesus took the time with almost anyone in His path. Be like Jesus, even if they are much different than you. Strike up a conversation. Who knows where God may take that relationship down the road.
