There are moments in life when we feel like we have been slapped in the face, turned upside down, shaken about, then set free again to have a go.
These are moments where we see things from a different perspective and we might say to ourselves, "Oh, that's right, that is what it is all about". So we refocus and start again.
It can happen, anywhere and anytime. While we watch a movie, read a book or hear someone say something profound.
It happened to me again recently as I watched Anthony Hopkins and Brad Pitt in 'Meet Joe Black'. It wasn't much; it wasn't even new, but it had its impact.
Bill Parrish (Anthony Hopkins), the successful media mogul, nearing his death, showed a glimpse of what it means to love his children. It wasn't rocket science, but it reminded me to love, enjoy and cherish my children. As a result I challenged myself to get up the next day and speak kind, loving and joyful words to my children.
Why did it have such an impact?
I think there were a few reasons:
Firstly, I am a dad. The movie spoke to me, where I was at; it was relevant to my situation; I could put myself into Bill Parrish's shoes.
Secondly, I was resting. I was taking time away from the pressures of life and I had time to reflect on my current situation.
Thirdly, it was Hollywood. Hollywood has a special knack of being able to pull at your heartstrings, to draw you into the drama of the film.
How can we emulate, at least some of, what I experienced here when we teach our children and young people?
A touch of perspective
Flowing from the above reasons, I will suggest three ways we can bring a touch of perspective to our hearers.
1. We need to be relevant. This means working hard to understand where people are at - in relationship to Jesus; in developmental understanding; and in relation to the world around them. This means we will show the stark difference between our world's views and Jesus' views. It means we will work hard to walk in their shoes as we bring God's word to bear on their lives. It means (and I am guilty of this) talking less about your children to people who don't have them!
2. We need to provide young people space to escape the distractions of the world, so that they can focus on God's perspective.
3. Use whatever is at our disposal to help children and young people understand the lessons we are aiming to teach. Creativity is your ally here. And for creativity we need time; time to think and time to prepare. (However, we don't want to be accused of being too like Hollywood. we need to avoid manipulating children and young people.)
There could be more ways to bring a touch of perspective, but these are my three.
What do you think? What would you add or remove?
