Chopsticks

No, I am not talking about the simple little tune which may be familiar to you. I am talking about those seemingly impossible to use eating utensils found in Asian restaurants. That is what I used to think anyway until one day I was challenged to use them while eating at a Chinese buffet. My first attempts were quite humorous. I am sure food was flying all over the place. I am not too certain about this as I have repressed these memories and there they shall stay. But the more I used chopsticks the better and more adept I became.

I soon learned not to try too hard, it takes a light touch. If you try to squeeze too hard the chopsticks will not work and you will end up with a stained shirt. Nice and easy, with just enough pressure to hold the food is all it takes.

So often, this lesson can apply in so many other areas of life. One place is in the Christian life, so often I feel we as Christians want nothing more than to change people who are not Christians. We try too hard by protesting, picketing, yelling, and demanding people change. I do not think that is what we are called to do, at least not using such harsh tactics. Several years ago I came to the conclusion I can not change anyone except myself. I can not force someone to follow Christ. I can not force someone to give up sinful behavior. The only thing I can do is point people to the one who can change. That is God the Father, through Jesus Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit.

I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. 1 Corinthians 3:6 (NLT)

I have no doubt Paul felt much the same way. He could only plant the seed, and others would water. Paul knew that only God could bring about real change in a person's life. In the broader context of his passage Paul is reminding the Corinthians that at one time they were immature and they allowed sin to rule their lives. Paul knew it would not be effective to go in shouting slogans and waving pickets demanding people change their ways right then and there. No, he preached the Word with love and gentleness, planting seeds of the Gospel in order that the Word of God would grow in the lives of the Corinthians. Paul knew the importance his role played in bringing people to saving grace in Christ. He could only tell others about a loving Father who gave His Son to wipe away the sins of those who believed in Him.

We are called to do the same, some of us to plant the seed, to evangelize, to share the Good News of Christ. Others are called along side to answer questions and provide gentle direction. Like using chopsticks it is the gentle touch that will be the most effective. We as Christians need to put down the signs, stop shouting, stop protesting and show love, kindness and gentleness.

My challenge to you is this: Learn to use chopsticks, it will change your life.

Special thanks to Aaron, who many years ago encouraged me to use chopsticks. God bless Brother.