Who Are You Trying To Impress?

I was reading a book, as is me habit, and I read the notes on the author.

It’s not the first time I’ve read about an author and their various works, but on this occasion something really stood out about the list of responsibilities and achievements.  There was something in it that struck me.

I get the marketing tactic.  If I see that the bloke that wrote the book is a big shot, I’ll take more note of what he has to say.  It makes sense.  He or she must have some sort of credibility backing their right to write.

Yet there’s something in that exercise that is actually counter-productive about it.  You’re asking me to invest in you because who you are and your achievements, rather than in the mere fact that you’re a child of God and have some insights to share in your journey in being a child of God.

Again, don’t get me wrong, I am not stopping anyone from listing their big wig credentials, but also think this through again.  You’re a professor lecturing, you’re noted for being wanted to attend speaking engagements, you’re a pastor of a church, you’re a writer of many books, you’re a father and a husband. What you’re also not mentioned is that you’re a brother and a friend as well.  What is left to consider, is how you get to do all of that effectively, without it costing you at some point down the line.  Surely it would be better doing a few things well, rather than being able to boast of doing so many great things .

How many times do you read in the acknowledgement of books gratitude for the family accepting the writer has been on a virtual hiatus from family duties because of the writing.  Think of the message that sends and the value they place on those things for the sake of getting that next bestseller finished.

Consider the question is, who are you trying to impress?  Why are you trying to impress me with all these things, when surely the attractive thing about you is the Jesus you have to share with me.  A Jesus who still chooses the foolish things of this world to confound the wise.

I encourage people on their CV’s to make the most of themselves – my argument is that this is you showing a potential employer how you best match their requirements.  That’s all well and good, after all, what’s the point having a trumpet if you’re not going to blow it.  Yet at the same time, that is limited and targeted for a purpose.

Beyond that there’s no need to boast in who you are and what yo do.  Just tell me you’re going to be talking about Jesus, and then pitch that in an enticing way, then I’ll take it from there.  Thanks.

For His Name’s Sake

Shalom

C. L. J. Dryden