Comments on Jonalyn Grace Fincher: Making Spiritual Small Talk

I keep losing the link to your blog; I should subs...

2009-07-13T09:35:16.843-07:00

I keep losing the link to your blog; I should subscribe in a reader I guess. I so appreciate the humility and grace with which you write and respond to your readership, as well as the courage you have to tackle some tough stuff.

I struggle with engaging in spiritual conversations for some reason. Part of it may be b/c I was in a confrontational evangelical environment for many years and you did not look for openings; you knocked on the door and said your peace (i.e. 1-2-3, repeat after me.) Some years ago, even after leaving that environment, I realized I still had a little chip on my shoulder, as if I were better than unbelievers because of what I did not do (i.e. drink, etc.) I think I'm sensitive to the need of others for Jesus but never good at making it conversational. maybe I need to read that book or something. Thanks for a thought-provoking poast.

Warren, Great to have you chime in! DMaher, Lov...

2009-06-10T15:03:05.242-07:00

Warren,

Great to have you chime in!

DMaher,

Loved your reminder about listening well. What a gift that is. I love receiving it, too. :)

Tito,

While I don't believe Christ (Messiah) is in everyone I meet, I do think everyone reflects the image of God... I think this is what you're getting at? If so, I thoroughly agree. We each share something unique about God in this world. As my husband often says, following Jesus means we become more ourselves, more richly unique.

Enjoyed your poem and the Don Quixote theme. Thanks for sharing!

Bette,

Thank you for taking time to write out your appreciation. It meant the world to me.

Found out you're a knitter... me, too. Finishing up a pair of thigh-high stockings this month. What are you working on?

Jonalyn

Thanks for your great writing Jonalyn. I caught yo...

2009-06-04T12:54:54.985-07:00

Thanks for your great writing Jonalyn. I caught your article (from a friend) in a magazine recently, and that prompted me to visit you here.

As a fellow writer, I salute your gift. While you craft your words carefully, you live deeply. That gives what you say great depth and wisdom; your skill makes it delightful to enjoy - like full fat ice cream on an August afternoon.

Keep thinking, reflecting, asking God into your thoughts and reflections. What pleasure it gives him.

I remember a poem by Denise Levertov, which she qu...

2009-05-26T14:36:26.385-07:00

I remember a poem by Denise Levertov, which she quoted a Christian mystic, saying everything becomes a prayer once you realize that God is always with us. My wife and I have just had our first and it a boy. I wrote a poem. I good practice for me has been to look for Christ in everyone I meet.

I, too, have read 'Letters by a Modern Mystic' and...

2009-05-22T14:32:44.140-07:00

I, too, have read 'Letters by a Modern Mystic' and was challenged to pray (multiple times a day) "Lord, what do you want me to say? What do you want me to do?" as I move through the day and interact with friends, family, neighbors, co-workers.

You asked for some conversational tips...mine isn't about conversation, but rather about becoming a better listener. As I read about your encounter at the jewelry shop, I noted that you asked really good questions.

I think that's the basis of good conversation: listening well and asking good questions. Many times the answer to my prayer, "Lord, what should I say?" the answer is simply, "Listen." Interesting.

Very thought-provoking post. I appreciate your con...

2009-05-22T10:58:07.069-07:00

Very thought-provoking post. I appreciate your concern for the Muslim population, and your desire to introduce them to Christ. It bothers me how some Christians just dismiss them out of hand ... Christ came for them, too. I want to check out a couple of the books you mentioned. Very good post, thanks. WB