The saying “familiarity breeds contempt” is very true.
It simply means that when we become used to having something or someone in our space, we tend to take it or them for granted, and lose any semblance of awe and respect for that thing or person.
I have recently been challenged about remembering and realising the power of where I find myself in life.
Sometimes I think we begin to forget the power of the space and platforms we occupy and begin to take them for granted.
Let me elaborate: The people in our immediate circles of influence all work or study in a particular field of life. Some of your friends may be in the creative sector; others may be in the financial sector; while some may be in church ministry – pastors, worship leaders, or whatever it may be. But the truth is, whatever field they are in, they have a “platform”. They have a sphere of influence that they are able to use in whatever way they deem appropriate.
Often, the misconception is that in order to make a real difference in the world in a spiritual sense, one needs to be directly linked to the church or some organisation that represents the church or Christian values. I have recently been reminded that this is not necessarily true.
Whatever sphere of life you are in, you are the best placed in that moment in time to make an impact.
Often, I find that because I am a Christian, I exercise caution when sharing my faith outside of Christian circles. This is not done intentionally, but more from the point of view of being careful not to offend people. However, what I have come to realise is that more often than not, if one brings a message with the right tone and heart, people are actually very receptive. In fact, people tend to respect you more for being able to stand up and share your faith.
I recently came across three interviews that have inspired me to use the platform and opportunities we come across to share our faith.
Pastors Carl Lentz, Rich Wilkerson Jr, and Kirk Franklin recently appeared on the world famous radio show The Breakfast Club, hosted by DJ Envy, Charlamagne and Angela Yee. Some of the world’s leading fashion, music and acting icons have been featured on this show. I suppose it is one of those studio visits to “tick off your list” when you reach a certain level of fame.
Despite being on the world’s most famous hip-hop breakfast show, Kirk, Carl, and Rich used the opportunity to break down their faith and dispel the numerous stereotypes about Christians: That they aren’t weird; that you don’t have to dress a certain way to meet with Jesus; that they listen to great music too; and that they even speak to people who aren’t Christian!
The church has definitely come a long way from the days where you couldn’t wear a pair of jeans on a Sunday. This is not to say there’s anything wrong with people who still do not feel that is appropriate, but it means that those who feel comfortable wearing their jeans have the freedom to worship, too.
These three interviews on The Breakfast Club reminded me that while we sit back and contemplate how to talk about faith without “freaking” others out, the world loses out on what we have to say.
It is simple: use the platform you have – people want to listen. Ask DJ Envy – any day now, he’ll be making his way to church… his words not mine!
How are you using your platform?
Watch all three interviews below:
Kirk Franklin:
Carl Lentz:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=utWfXdzlmjI
Rich Wilkerson Jr: