Telling One's Story

For the past several weeks, I have been inviting various people to share their "story" during our Wednesday night meetings at Grace Christian Fellowship, the church where I serve as pastor. To be honest, each "story" has had an incredible impact on each of us, as listeners. Sure, the "story teller" has benefitted the most; however, the rest of us have certainly not been left out in the "cold."
It has been interesting for me to watch the expressions on the faces of the listeners as they enter into each story. Emotions range from "belly" laughter to almost uncontrolled tears. Attention levels are at an all-time high, as each story unfolds. There is something within each of us that connects with and is drawn to the one who is willing to be vulnerable and share his or her life's story. Ironically, the more honestly the storyteller shares, the more openly he exposes his true story, the more intensly we are drawn to him. Strangely, however, rarely does anyone volunteer to tell his story.
Most of us readily admit our desire for true relationships but few of us are willing to take the perceived risk of removing our "fig leaves" and allowing others to see our "private parts." This is true because we have been convinced that others would shun us, if they knew the real truth about us. It is very difficult for us to believe that another would be drawn to us, if he found out the truth about us. Yet, over and over, it proves to be true: people are drawn to the transparent and honest, not to those who hide behind self-righteousness and pretense.
As the people who make up this part of the Body of Christ continue to tell their stories, I am confident that a depth of relationship will ensue, the likes of which most of us have never seen. Furthermore, I am also confident that a level of respect is being generated that will weather any storm.
Finally, there is a level of trust that is being exhibited both by the story-teller and the listener that far surpasses what most have ever known, so much so that it has the "air" of holiness, of sacredness, about it!
I have no idea what church, if any, you might be attending but, regardless, find someone you trust and ask him/her to listen to your story. If you cannot find a person, find a dog or cat but tell your story! Be honest and transparent and you might just be surprised at the result.
Just for the record: the entire Bible from Genesis to the Revelation is Jesus' telling us His story and, surely, it goes without saying, that it has made quite a positive impact on the lives of untold thousands. Remember this: it is not the kind of story that most would tell in order to attract others; instead, it is the kind of story that most of us would not want to tell because we believe it would cause others to shun us.
Anyway, you have a story to tell and someone needs to hear it; therefore, you need to tell it!