Resonance of the Kingdom: The frequency we emit

Why is it that people "see us coming" when we go out into the streets to "preach the gospel?" You would think that we emit a frequency that repels those who are the target of our pursuit? How can so many be "turned off" by what we call "words of life?" Why aren't they buying what we are selling? And why does it feel so awkward at times? My insecurity? My inability to communicate? Maybe. But maybe there is something more.

And why is it that Jesus attracted them? He drew them in like thirst to a cool drink of water. Why? What did He know that we don't?

I don't think it is about what He knew. It is who He is. And who He is... is complete love (agape in the Greek). He is so in love with the Father that He did not even have an agenda of His own. It was the Father's agenda. He was so in love with the Father that He became one with the Father. He even said it, "I and My Father are one." It was that kind of love...agape (sacrificial self-giving, self-sharing) kind of love. The Kingdom kind of love...the God kind of love. Not sloppy... precise. Agape demands a precise target of its love. Love (the agape kind) has another quality to it. It perfects both the giver and the receiver. Paul said that our love is perfected, matured.

Is it possible that we are not motivated by agape but by a substitute love? Eros is a word not found in the bible but was common in Jesus culture. It means love but kind of in the way that "I love hamburgers." I love the hamburger, not for the burgers sake but mine. I plan on devouring the burger. I want to use the burger to satisfy my hunger, my palate, my need. Is it possible that is how we approach people, ministry, even God?

Is it possible that we have been treating people, ministry, God as a hamburger? ...Approaching them for what we need? ...Can get out of them? ...Use for what I need?

If so, what is the antidote? The only antidote for eros is an infusion of agape. Agape transforms. In the DNA of Jesus blood is agape. Agape not only transforms but emits a sound. More about this next time.