Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.
1 Cor. 9: 19-23
Leonardo da Vinci was a true "Renaissance Man"! Artist, Scientist, Musician, Engineer, Inventor, Writer...and on and on! He was a man with a million interests, and he had the intellect, skill, and ability to back them up. I do well to kind of know the handful of things that hold my attention.
In 1st Corinthians 9:19-23, Paul writes of becoming all things to all people. Some may look at that and take it to an unhealthy extreme. I don't feel we're being asked/encouraged to do anything that would damage our witness or place us in a destructive situation. However, I think Paul is encouraging us to find common ground & meet people where they are at. I think Leonardo would have been the perfect person to connect with others because he could find commonality with just about anyone with his vast array of interests. Finding a similar interest or experience will help break down walls & encourage dialog. Even if you don't feel you have anything in common in interest or experience...you are a human being with the same basic needs/wants/desires/dreams. Ask them questions where they can share their heart & their hopes. If you ever want someone to hear your heart about Jesus Christ and what He has done in your life, they first need to know that you care about them and you're interested in them as a person.
Being a "Renaissance Christian" doesn't mean we have to know everything about everything....just be willing to "become all things to all people". What do all people need...to be heard, to be valued, to be respected, and to be loved. If we can provide that...the door to share Christ will be opened. Not that all will come to Him...but if it is just "some"....it is worth it!!
PRAYER
Dear Jesus, help me to be be all things to all people. Allow me to know what that means & live it out. Help me to meet people where they are at...not where I think they should be. I want You to use me...work through me so that some may come to You!! Don't let me get in the way of others hearing Your message of Love & Grace.
In Christ's Name
AMEN
Another thought- provoking post, Mr. E! I can relate to being a "Renaissance Christian"........maybe even a Renaissance Human!
ReplyDeleteVery well said!
ReplyDeleteGreat reminder! As teachers, especially art teachers we have a tendency to get so wrapped up in the immediate urgency that we forget to "meet our staff and students where they are." Thanks for the reminder. Kathy O
ReplyDeleteThanks Mr E! Your thoughts, words and correlation with the Arts interest me. I look forward to your devotionals each week. God Bless you, your family, and your art teaching. Be sure to take time each day for family and yourself. Following!
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