Sociology was the direction I went in college. That and psychology. You know, those “touchy-feely” classes. I was always an English and grammar nerd. Words were my thing, more so then lab experiments in science class. Philosophy, music, the arts, reading, music, history, music,…you get the idea.

Jesus was the first, and greatest sociologist. He knew people – how to read them, what makes them tick, what they are truly passionate about. He understood them completely in the most intimate, personal way. It is so awesome the way he built his team of disciples. He gave Simon a nickname. He publicly commended Nathaniel on his guileless, completely honest character. Jesus was approachable and had the perfect gift of encouraging people to follow him. In some cases, of course, that ended once they saw the true cost of discipleship. He loved so unabashedly, throwing caution, his own safety to the wind. He knew that the only things that matter are God and people. That is why so many of us are drawn to him. We can certainly appreciate and marvel at the wisdom of God through the precision of mathematics and the applied sciences. But they cannot approach the depth of knowing the sociology and psychology of Jesus. He identified totally with the world, even though he was not of it. This is what made him holy. It is the same holiness that is embedded in each of us. Reflecting that is far more effective than witnessing techniques or evangelistic marketing strategies. Being authentic. Living within Jesus’ power and presence is what will draw seekers and skeptics back to church.

We give each other hope just by existing. Aside from worshipping and obeying God, following the example of Jesus, the greatest gift we have is each other. Home and family environments, shaping us for good or ill, lead to friendly relationships. Those can either turn dysfunctional upbringings into triumphant choices and achievements or shatter healthy experiences with poor circles of friends. Jesus understands both, of course. He is able far beyond what we can hope or imagine to redeem, bless, and love unconditionally. Rest secure and joyful in Jesus, the first and greatest sociologist.

Pastor Art