In our previous discussions, I’ve underscored the transformative power of the Incarnational mission approach. This approach, rooted in close and personal ministry, is a profound way to embody God’s love and the gospel of Christ. By embracing this approach, we can transcend the notion of ‘distant ministry ‘, which refers to a more detached and less personal approach to ministry, leading to more impactful interactions and a profound understanding of diverse
cultures.
Our cultural upbringing often makes us unaware of the diversity in human behavior. For instance, greetings can vary from shaking hands to bowing to nodding. A few others include gestures, ways of sitting and standing, the tone of one’s voice, the loudness or softness of one’s voice, the way of eating (with folk, spoon, chopsticks, hands, etc.); what hand to eat with (right or left hand); ways of asking directions (direct or indirect); ways of walking; etc. These seemingly minor differences can become ingrained habits that we consider appropriate behavior, highlighting the need for cultural sensitivity.
During my time living overseas, and I believe this applies even while residing in the USA, I found myself unintentionally offending people in cross-cultural settings. This was often due to my lack of awareness of the impact of my words, gestures, and greetings. These experiences serve as powerful reminders of the urgent need for cultural sensitivity in our interactions, as it can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts that can hinder our mission.
As we engage with the nations among us, it is crucial that we develop a deeper understanding of our focus people and their culture. I urge us to be active observers and listeners. We learn less when we talk and more by sitting in a shop or on the side of the road and observing how people greet one another. This active engagement is the key to truly understanding and appreciating different cultures, and it’s a skill we can all develop with practice. This journey is not just educational but transformative, enriching our lives and broadening our perspectives in ways we can’t even imagine.
Let me share a vivid example of how I embrace an Incarnational life. Last week, I found myself at a South Asian Indian restaurant, savoring dishes that have become a part of my life. More than 10 South Asians were present at the restaurant last Monday, and they are projected to plant churches among their Hindu or Muslim people in DFW. You see, being and living incarnationally is about being relational. It is about being with people, praying with and for them, and eating what they like and deem important. With the above in mind, practice the Incarnational model as you encounter the nations now among us in DFW.