How we do we look at the world? And how can we transform our perspective to become more like that of Christ?
Each day we encounter so many loud voices in our social media, our communities, and our politics. How can we discern the quiet voice of God amongst the clamour of such differing opinions?
The Bible challenges us to view the world through the lens of God’s grace and mercy. As it says in Romans 12.2:
“Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God – what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
The Bible itself is a story of God reaching out in love to transform our lives and help us look beyond our limited perspectives, to view the world in the light of eternity. “We look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen; for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4.18)
But how can we work on transforming our perspective to become more Christ-like in our daily lives? Much of this will come through regular prayer, Bible study and worship. But it also comes through our journey with others.
My mother suffers from dementia, and her precious memories are quickly fading. However, as a woman of strong faith, she continues to read her Bible each morning and to be comforted and challenged by what she reads. She continues to remind me (many times!) that the greatest gift we can give another person is to truly listen to them, to give them space to speak their mind and space for us to understand their perspective.
Within our church at St John and St Stephen’s in Reading, we are blessed in having people from countries across the world. As we listen to their stories of life and faith, we expand our perspective and discover so much more about our wonderful God at work. Another of our local churches, St Nicolas, Earley, recently started a drop-in centre for refugees. Volunteers help individuals fill in forms, open bank accounts and learn English. Learning about the challenges they face and their hopes for the future has challenged our preconceptions and broadened our mindsets.
Are there ways we can transform our own perspective by listening to the voice of God within the different voices of those in our church and community? Perhaps as a result, our perspective will become more like that of Jesus:
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or empty conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests but to the interests of others. Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2.3-5)
Words: Hamish Bruce, a Licensed Lay Minister at St John and St Stephen’s Church, Reading and former Communications Manager of the United Bible Societies
If you are inspired to reach out to refugees and asylum seekers, the diocese has useful guidanc.