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Michael Fox CPCC,
founder of m�agine!,
is a professional
coach and trainer,
author and creative artist, whose work has been featured throughout
the world.
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Often lost in the noise is the pain of the believer who struggles to love. Here's a story of a young lady who, in a matter of moments, discovers her ability to love another believer, in spite of her wounds...
"But, Michael, how can I love John, a man who has spoken ill of my family and who has treated them with such suspicion and disrespect?"
"Carli, I'd like to share two thoughts with you. First, remember that to love in the name of Jesus is simply to show kindness to another. You are not required to be flushed with emotions as you show kindness--just to act with a gracious and kind disposition. What's possible, Carli? Second, remember that John, like you and me and all men and women, is broken. Often, the injury that we inflict upon others, even unconsciously, is less a reaction to the present circumstances than to our own brokenness."
"I invite you to play all out with me, Carli. I'd like you to confess to me of your brokenness; however, I would like to first confess to you of my own brokenness. Carli, I know brokenness in a sarcastic tendency toward others...I know brokenness in hidden desires for immorality...I know brokenness in exhaustion, in weariness...I know brokenness in the uncertainty that perhaps I exaggerate my worth to the body of Jesus...and, therefore, for the purpose for which I live. Now, Carli, would you feel free to confess your brokenness with me?"
Carli speaks slowly, deliberately, transparently; the sincerity of her confession is affirmed by her moist eyes and halting voice. "Michael, I know brokenness in impatience...I know brokenness, I am easily irritated toward others...I know brokenness in my relationship with my family, in my responsibilities as both mother and wife...I know brokenness in a tendency, an inclination, toward particular sins of immorality...I know brokenness in failing to love those who are difficult to love."
"Thank you, Carli. Now would you play all out just a bit more? This is not something I would typically recommend under most circumstances. But let's engage in role play. Carli, I am going to sit in the place of John. I would like you to invite me, as John, to confess my brokenness."
Carli complies with my requests and says, "John, I invite you to confess your brokenness." As John, I look deeply into Carli's eyes and I confess, "Carli, I know brokenness as the youngest, and often overlooked, of my many siblings...I know brokenness because I value money and have never been been able to adequately support my wife and children...I know brokenness in my unsuccessful desire to be regarded as a leader...I know brokenness in my quick temper and impulsive action...I know brokenness in my lack of knowledge and wisdom...I know brokenness in..."
The role play was interrupted by a knowing gasp from Carli and the presence of tears streaming from her eyes. I gently touched Carli on her wrist and inquired of her, "What is the source of the tears?"
With a tear-filled smile, Carli joyfully replied, "I sense love for John. I want to be kind to him."
What new knowledge was responsible for Carli's change of heart toward John?
What would it look like to have a series of small, intimate conversations among the members of your church, where members humbly confess their brokenness to one another?
How might the recognition of our mutual brokenness show up in our relationships? |
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Michael Fox
m�agine!
530/613.2774
P.O. Box 9144
Auburn, CA, USA 95604
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In addition to personal and professional coaching,
m�agine! specializes in spiritual transformation coaching,
employing its proprietary models: Values, Vision, Voice and Heart, Soul, Mind & Strength.
Michael's books include Complete in Christ,
Complete in Christ Spiritual Transformation Workbook, and Biblio�files.
Coaching fees are based upon a sliding scale. Contact us for details.
Limited scholarships are available for spiritual transformation coaching.
On the flip side, if you are able, please inquire about opportunities
to fund scholarships for those who cannot afford coaching fees.
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