Priorities VI

02.11.08

In John1:37–39, two disciples of John the Baptist (probably John and Andrew) are hanging out in the country. John the Baptist points out that Jesus is the Savior of the world. The two disciples ask Jesus, “Where are you staying?” Now the right answer is to point in some direction or say, “I’m camped out over there by that tree, next to the family with the barking dog.” Instead, what He says is, “Come and see.” That’s not an answer to the question. In fact, it appears that answering the question and dispersing information isn’t even a priority with Jesus. What was important was beginning a relationship. So, Jesus invites them to spend time with Him.

So, what is the priority: Intentional Relationships. Jesus was intentional in every action he undertook with the end in mind being relationship. Beginning with the choice to leave heaven and become a man, continuing with calling the disciples, Nicodemus and others to follow Him and giving up personal time on the mountaintop to be with the crowds; when it comes to relationships Jesus is intentional.

Here are some suggestions for making this a priority in your life:

• Begin to pray – as a member of CSUS you are asked to pray every Monday at lunch for surfers – do that.
• Write out a list of specific surfers and pray for them regularly.
• Begin to surf on purpose – what I mean by that is living for Jesus in the water. Give a wave to a guy, talk to people in the lineup, etc.
• Begin to intentionally spend time with surfers – grab coffee with one of the guys in the lineup that you know or surf with someone regularly for the purpose of encouraging them in following Jesus.
• This is a tough one. Instead of surfing your secret spot alone, surf where the crowd is just for the reason of meeting people.
  

Jesus didn’t say “I know I’m supposed to love my neighbor, but...” instead, he turned most conversations into an opportunity to build friendships. Let’s do the same in 2008. Who do you surf for?