I wrote last Monday on my difficult time learning to accept God’s call to live for Him in my ordinary life, instead of traveling to minister to others via a mission trip. Jay was a little offended by the post. While it was not my intention, he took it to mean I thought being married to him was a chore.
I attempted to convey my heart on the matter: frankly put its hard to “witness” to someone who’s heard you drop the “f” bomb. Especially when said bomb was intended to hit him them.
Exhausting. Hard. Thankfully those of you who commented seemed to understand the point I was trying to make.
Later in the day, I had a {oh-so-tiny} shot at redemption. A scene staring BJay:
Jay: takes the last cold soda (cherry diet Pepsi) from the fridge and cracks it open.
Brooke: wrinkles her nose
Jay: What?
Brooke: Nothing. long dramatic pause. That was supposed to be mine. I let you have all the others. That one’s diet so you won’t drink it.
Jay: But its cherry, so I will.
Brooke: Oh. looks sad
Jay: You can have it if you want it.
Brooke: No, its okay. Jesus wants you to have it.
Jay: No, take it.
Brooke: Jesus wants you to have it.
Jay: Its okay. Take it.
Brooke: HURRAH! Jesus wants me to have it!!
I’m pretty sure the above interaction isn’t what 1 Peter 3:1 had in mind. Now that we have the 2 examples of how not to live missionally, why don’t we consider ways we can purpose this week to reach others for Christ.
In the comments, I’d love to hear your ideas for things we can do right where we are to show the world around us God’s love.
awkwardly graceful 
We know you don't think it's a chore to live with Jay!
It is hardest to show Christ to those we live with though, because as you said, they see us at our worst!
I wish I had some concrete examples, but I think just trying to put others first and showing forgiveness goes a long way.
LikeLike
Omg you are so funny! I know this is a serious post, but I love your comments to each other!
LikeLike
I have a neighbor who had called the ambulance one night (she thought she was having a heart attack, but it turned out to be an anxiety attack). When I went to check on her the next day, she explained that she has suffered from anxiety & depression and hasn't been taking her meds. She has four kids (ages 2-6), who add to her stress I'm sure. I totally should've made her dinner. That would've shown God's love. But I made excuses (time, the budget, blah blah blah). I guess my point is that we all fail. My prayer is that God will open my eyes, that I won't be so selfish, and that I'll look for ways to show His love to those around me. I have a long way to go.
LikeLike
putting others first is soooooooooooo hard, especially on a consistant basis. baby steps would help though.
LikeLike
being able to laugh at ourselves is one of the great things about our relationship.
LikeLike
you went to check on her. you didn't have to you know? that sounds like a good example to me. sure we could always do more, but you made that first step. good for you! i'm sure she appreciated it.
LikeLike