This is quite enlightening. Generally, I was taught that they left their family business, leaving parents to get along without them. This makes much more sense. And, it makes more sense as to their following him. Jesus had effectively bought them, or at least their freedom. There are so many extensions into our lives that it is mind boggling.
Also we must always be on guard not to marginalize others. It is very easy to do. Especially in small group or even one on one. LISTEN then think then respond. Often we are afraid that we will forget what we want to say, somewhere in the middle of a new Christian's question or testimony. Then, the rest of their story just gets flushed from the conversation. I know that I have done that frequently.
Yes, it does make so much more sense. And sooo many extensions!
And I know what you mean about being afraid we will forget how we want to respond before the other person is finished. Unfortunately, the older I get, the more this is a valid fear. My brain often flushes my own thoughts spontaneously, sometimes at the exact moment the other person is finished. As my friend Greg likes to say, getting old isn't for sissies.
But really what I was referring to was people who aren't even listening to you. It's like it doesn't even register to them that you are still talking. They just jump in on top of whatever you're saying. It has gotten a little better when I call people on it. They often have no idea they were behaving badly.
And, having been in this situation often, it does help me to relate to those who feel marginalized for other reasons.
Sharon:
This is quite enlightening. Generally, I was taught that they left their family business, leaving parents to get along without them. This makes much more sense. And, it makes more sense as to their following him. Jesus had effectively bought them, or at least their freedom. There are so many extensions into our lives that it is mind boggling.
Also we must always be on guard not to marginalize others. It is very easy to do. Especially in small group or even one on one. LISTEN then think then respond. Often we are afraid that we will forget what we want to say, somewhere in the middle of a new Christian's question or testimony. Then, the rest of their story just gets flushed from the conversation. I know that I have done that frequently.
Yes, it does make so much more sense. And sooo many extensions!
And I know what you mean about being afraid we will forget how we want to respond before the other person is finished. Unfortunately, the older I get, the more this is a valid fear. My brain often flushes my own thoughts spontaneously, sometimes at the exact moment the other person is finished. As my friend Greg likes to say, getting old isn't for sissies.
But really what I was referring to was people who aren't even listening to you. It's like it doesn't even register to them that you are still talking. They just jump in on top of whatever you're saying. It has gotten a little better when I call people on it. They often have no idea they were behaving badly.
And, having been in this situation often, it does help me to relate to those who feel marginalized for other reasons.
Sharon - I really appreciate your writing on this piece. I found it insightful and made me think.
Thanks, Marni! I have to share that praise with Diana Butler Bass, of course. But I like to think I added some humor. 😉