Assumptions undermine conversations. In fact many times presuppositions not only inhibit talking with one another, but also bring anything resembling dialogue to a complete halt. I recently sent a letter to our church community suggesting we consider, "Where we are going?" in light of Jesus going to Jerusalem, Calvary and the Empty Tomb. Someone construed this as an opportunity to assume we would be interjecting another church’s methodology. Assumptions we would be implementing this strategy eliminated, in some minds, the occasion to have a conversation, dialogue or talk with one another.
Rick offers some thoughts growing from his own experiences at leading and talking with folks about new ways to network for the good of the Kingdom of God. He follows up here. Bob illustrates Rick’s post giving a description of his dinner with D.A. Carson. Pay careful attention to Bob taking it in the face.
I am left thinking at some point the practice of the ethic of Jesus must trump my long held beliefs when it comes to relationships with others. How will we ever be heard if our tone contradicts the command to love one another?