Describe a random encounter with a stranger that stuck out positively to you.
He was a stranger to me as most people are to all of us at first, even our parents and siblings. I heard much concerning him. He was famous or infamous depending on your point of view and what you were told, I guess.
His reputation was the first thing I learned of him. Most of the influencers in my life spoke highly of him. On occasion, I would hear some trash talk him, even blame him for actions that caused harm or tragedy. I believed him to be very powerful.
Somehow though, even with those who respected him, I got the idea that his expectations for his fans was too high and he could be quite demanding and inflexible. His advice often came at a high cost and more of a command akin to “my way or the highway.”
But one day, a teacher told me this story about him that made me want to know him better. I was shy and had been told children should be seen and not heard and of course as I often did, I took it to heart and to the extremes. But on this occasion, I really wanted to learn more about this man. So, I stopped my teacher and inquired about him. I was told I could know him personally. I just needed to ask my dad to show me how I could meet him.
At age six, I think I was a little afraid to ask my dad something so ridiculous. I don’t know why I was afraid, but I was, so I didn’t ask. That makes this accounting so remarkable.
That night, out of nowhere, I felt the presence of this stranger and without hesitation I asked him if there’s anyway I could get to know him. From that point forward, he befriended me. Learning more about him and returning his friendship has positively impacted my life.
I had misunderstood who God is. He is not this terrible taskmaster or bully or overbearing father. He has been a true and trustworthy friend who relentlessly tries to make my life not always easier, but always fuller. Even after our first beautiful encounter, through many tough conversations with him, and even through some seasons where he still seemed like a stranger, thankfully, he never abandoned me or betrayed our friendship.
That’s a true friend. He risks our friendship to tell me the perfect advice. If I refuse his advice which has yet to be wrong, he is still my friend and can often turn my mistake into something good that draws me closer to him. He loves me unconditionally.
It is fair and reasonable that he gave up his life for me that I should do the same. Giving my best which he gave to me to begin with is all he asks to show my love for him. That is the true meaning of worship. I and also the apostle and author of the letter to the Romans believe it is the most wise and rational thing we can do as a life.
Categories: Christianity Myths Friends
Douglas Knight
I have the rich life full of a sinner wounded by misunderstanding and punishment but blessed by mercy and forgiveness.
Knight Writer 