shut up

We are doing a series at C3 called "just walk across the room". I am really liking it because it is very practical. It is very simple and it helps you understand that everyone has a story to tell. As Christians we have two stories to tell.

The first story is God's story, the second one is yours. When we tell our story sometimes we ramble or talk in terms that people outside of the "church world" don't even understand. We have been known to come off as better than others and make them feel judged. I don't believe that is the story we should be telling.

Quite simply the story should be your life before Christ and your life now. If those stories are not much different, than maybe you should reevaluate some things. If you are no different now after calling yourself a Christian for years then there is something wrong. You need to just SHUT UP and quit telling people you are a follower of Christ because you are sending a mixed message.

If you are a Christian, a true Christ follower, one of the best ways to tell your story is to live it. The thrust behind the series is to "Just walk across the room". Simply put, show some interest in someone other than yourself. When you know the 2 stories you are wanting to tell, you will have the confidence to engage others in conversation.

When you do begin talking to someone, again, just shut up!!! That may sound weird because we have the greatest story ever told and we feel like we need to shove it down people's throats. That isn't very effective. Not sure if I am right? When was the last time you welcomed those people who go door to door in white shirts and ties? They have a story to tell but it is impersonal. Their goal is to blow in, get you to believe what they believe and blow out.

I believe Christ is about relationships. If you can shut up long enough to let the other person talk while you truly listen, they are going to see something different in you. Believe me, they will ask!!! When (not if) they ask about you, they are asking because they really want to know. Something in you is different and they are very curious to know what it is. Guess what... You get to tell them and they will hear you.

My point: If you are a so-called Christian, please shut up. If you are a true follower of Christ, walk across the room, show interest in someone and please shut up long enough to let the person speak. Most people want to talk. You should listen. Listen to their story and let them see there is something authentic about you. Then tell them the greatest story there is...

I love the line in a song by Toby Mac. It says "somebody shut me up so I can live out loud!"

Now, shut up and live out loud... no really, SHUT UP!!!