Calling a Spade a Spade

My employer is headquartered in New York City and I have many co-workers in that city and in the general northeast.  I have thoroughly enjoyed working with many of them.  One difference that we often laugh about is how they tend to be much more direct in their speaking than I am.  As a southern gal, I tend to be sensitive to some of the direct comments, especially if they are directed to or about me.  However, I've learned over time not to be so sensitive and have come to appreciate the fact that I don't have to think too hard to read between the lines.

Jesus had to much to teach and say in his short three years of ministry.  I can only imagine that he was bubbling over with things he wanted to say and teach.  Obviously Jesus was God in the flesh, his clarity and emotions were perfect.  He knew people's thoughts and motives.  We can tell from the scriptures that he paid very close attention to what was going on around him.  He waited for the right moments and perfectly chose his words and the points to be made.  He was able to speak directly in ways that would most effectively convey his message.  He was always direct and honest "calling a spade a spade".

We can learn so much from Jesus' ministry and how he dealt with other people.  At times he was direct and at other times he told stories.  In some cases, he asked questions and in others he made bold statements.  He also expressed a variety of emotions - compassion, anger, grief, humility, joy, and so many others. 

The Pharisees needed to be challenged directly.  They were very knowledgeable of the law and Jesus had to challenge them in ways that cause them to think "outside of the box".  Jesus was very clever in catching them in their accusations before the words came out of their mouths.  He wanted them (and us) to know that truly loving others is most important... much more important than their man-made laws.

The large crowds had to be told directly what it would cost for them to truly follow Jesus.  They needed to understand that he requires humble servants and sacrifices.  But the reward is great and eternal!

Luke 15 includes some of my favorite parables:

• The lost sheep
• The lost coin
• The lost son

There are so many nuggets to glean from these chapters.  But the bottom line is that Jesus cares deeply for each human soul.  I love the visual that we get of the shepherd going to find the one lost sheep and carrying it home.  Jesus' message is undeniably consistent.  He wants to make sure we know the reality of eternal life (both the good and the bad).  God wants us to see the lost as He sees them... worthy of pursuing so that they may come to believe in Him.  In these passages, I'm reminded of our recent study at Oak Hill and how we are commanded to lay up treasures in heaven.  Searching diligently for lost souls and rejoicing when they are found is certainly laying up treasures in heaven.

Through the Holy Spirit, we gain insight into what is going on around us and how people need to be ministered and spoken to.  I'm encouraged by the fact that people are not "cookie cutters". We can think creatively and rely on the Lord's guidance to minister to and with others.  I'm also reminded to be honest with others although it can seem to be the tougher choice for various reasons.  We can "call a spade a spade" and also be kind, gentle, and loving.  What a fun challenge!

"But we had to celebrate and be glad, 

because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; 

he was lost and is found."

~Luke 15:32