Learning to Listen; Listening to Learn
The title of the book we are currently using for our church-wide study can be both particularly provocative and timely—“Cultures in Conflict.” Ray Vander Laan explores the discussions that Paul entertains as he encounters the Hellenized cultures of Rome. Vander Laan notes that Paul ‘was not afraid to listen, learn and dialogue with them—even those with whom he passionately disagreed.’ Can you recall your most recent, heated disagreement? Did the discussion strengthen your relationship with the other person? Did you better understand the other person’s perspective?
Vander Laan also noted that ‘there is wisdom in understanding another person’s perspective, especially when one disagrees.’ However, our current culture appears to vilify those with whom we disagree. Difference is not only discouraged, it usually isn’t tolerated. One of the final questions that is included in the opening chapter simply asks ‘are we content to arrogantly ignore what is said or written by people whose opinions we dislike?’
As we prepare for Vacation Bible School (VBS), we are all encouraged to not only invite as many people (children, teens and adults) to participate, we are also encouraging each member to plan to volunteer as we host this traditional opportunity to engage with members of the congregation and the community. Most of us have very fond memories of the many concepts that we learned during VBS regardless of how many years may have passed. Whenever I see the Christian flag in the sanctuary, I remember the pledge that I learned when attending VBS at one of the local Baptist churches in my hometown—I pledge allegiance to the Christian flag, and to the Saviour for whose Kingdom it stands; one Saviour, crucified, risen, and coming again with life and liberty to all who believe. Imagine my surprise to learn that the pledge was written by a Methodist minister, Lynn Harold Hough. According to Christianity Today, Rev. Hough had heard Ralph Diffendorfer (the secretary of the Methodist Young People’s Missionary Movement) promoting the flag at a rally.
VBS represents an annual opportunity to connect with youth and families during the summer months when many children are often unsupervised and looking for constructive ways to spend their time. VBS can include much more than basic Bible instruction, children can learn music, gardening, poetry, history, photography, martial arts, pickle ball, crafts and more. As we call for “all hands on deck” to help us shine the beacon of God’s love throughout the community, we can also reflect the words of Paul which record ‘your faith in God has become known everywhere’ (1 Thessalonians 1:8). We have a story to tell to the nations. As we learn together in worship and Sunday morning classes, let us also explore ways that we can each learn new insights as we learn to listen to perspectives that are familiar and those that are novel. We are looking forward to seeing you!
In Christ,
Jon McCoy
