By Karla Rodriguez
Last month my article was titled, “Bursting your Christian Bubble”. I told a bit of my life story and expressed how interesting it was to grow up as a Latino Pentecostal preacher’s kid in the United States. I explained how looking back towards my childhood, adolescence and young adult years in the church brought both joy and regret. I felt joy because I had the privilege to see first-hand the intricate workings of the local church. However, I also felt regret because I realized that I had related only to Christians in exclusive Christian environments. I called the latter, my “Christian Bubble”; hence the title of my article.
Lately I’ve been challenged by God to burst my Christian Bubble in order to reach the lost and build relationships with unbelievers. Let me tell you, it hasn’t been easy. Some suggested ways seem so simple, yet when attempted are very difficult. The idea of bursting your Christian bubble sounds exciting and innovative, even a bit rebellious and revolutionary. However, when put into practice, is not as glamorous as you think. Reason being: Bursting your Christian bubble actually means that we must step outside of our comfort zones. “Yikes!” might be our first reaction. It also requires the occasional interruption of our daily routines and schedules. “No way!” might be our second reaction. It might even mean taking a few minutes to talk to the next-door neighbor whose name we still don’t know after 10 years. “Do I really have to?” might be our third response.
I believe that the best way to begin bursting our Christian bubble is by taking small, progressive steps. Drastic changes all at once will most likely lead to failure and then discouragement. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Read about the life of Jesus. If there is something that will reignite your heart for the lost, it’s the Word of God. It is a two-edged sword that penetrates the hardest of hearts. As we read about the life of our Savior, we will discover His priorities, His practices and His passion for people.
2. Re-evaluate your priorities. As you learn about Jesus’ priorities, you will desire to apply them to your own life. Evaluate where your relationship with God stands, where your husband and kids stand, and where the unsaved stand. What is taking most of your time? What things can be rearranged or even cut out of your schedule to accommodate priorities? This will allow time to speak with unbelievers and be an example with your lifestyle.
3. Do less. This principle applies to our personal lives in regards to work, home and school. But it also applies to ministry. Why is it that at times it seems that the more we do, the more efficient we think we are? Our ministry calendars are booked solid with activities throughout the week. Our church families are asked or sometimes pressured to come to church several times a week to serve when they already have so much on their plates. Could it be if we do less, we will have more time to relate to unbelievers?
4. Be Aware. I believe that as we do less, the more we’ll be aware of the people who surround us. Over-occupation tends to bog us down emotionally and mentally, which then leaves us with no desire to reach out to those in need. Open your eyes and ears to the needs of your neighbors and co-workers. Be sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit as He guides you to befriend a cashier or waitress who you see once a week at your favorite restaurant or grocery store.
5. Don’t be Legalistic. One of the things that Jesus rebuked the most was legalism on behalf of the Pharisees and the scribes of his day. He pointed out their outward expression of “holiness” and their internal lack of love and compassion for others. Sadly, this spirit of legalism still exists today. Jesus challenges us to love others as we love ourselves no matter how they look or how their lives look like. How many times have we scoffed at people who dress, speak or think completely different than ourselves because we judge them by their outward appearance? Tattooists, body piercers, atheists, gang bangers, drug addicts, homosexuals or prostitutes should never make us turn our backs in rejection, but break our hearts with compassion.
6. Don’t Fear Rejection. Jesus Himself said that if the world rejected Him, it would reject us, as well. In other words: “get used to it”. The enemy wants us to fear rejection so we will never step out of our Christian bubble. When we know that not everyone will receive God’s love with open arms, we understand that at least we have planted a seed that in its time will give fruit.
Sometimes people reject us because of the way we present God to them. There are so many ways we can share God’s love without breaking out a 10-point sermon on the wages of sin. Sharing God’s love actually means we must genuinely love people. How is it that genuine love is expressed? It is expressed through actions. As you get to know people, be sensitive to ways they feel loved. Some people might need to be listened to; others need encouragement through words, a quick e-mail or a note. You can invite people over for dinner or go to the movies with them. Remember people’s birthdays and send a card if you know they’re sick. Little things like that will make a world of a difference and will impact their lives like you can’t imagine. Sooner or later, they’ll want to know the God loving them through you.
7. Pray. Last but not least: Pray. Pray for every one of these last points to be made real in your life. Little by little the Holy Spirit will soften your heart and show you the areas that need to be changed within you. Be patient as He shows you and obey what He tells you to do. The way you live life and lead your ministry will never be the same.
