Uncharacteristic.
Interesting word, that. Often heard when someone does something that you really would not expect them to do. Often used in the negative.
What I love about the gospel of Jesus Christ and indeed the entire narrative of scripture with God is how He takes those you wouldn’t expect and makes them do the unexpected. The thing as well about it is that as folks give themselves over to Him that which was uncharacteristic at first becomes the norm eventually.
This was highlighted recently in an incident recounted to me by a good friend. My friend was attending an event and came across this unassuming woman. She was very quiet and my friend didn’t expect much from her at all. They were in a setting where people were encouraged to share and then pray for each other on a range of issues. At one point this unassuming woman opened her mouth to pray and my friend was gobsmacked. For the words and passion that emerged from the woman was unexpected. Not only that but the content of what came out was so inspired and spot on. As she spoke later on, she was able to speak with considered wisdom and insight into people’s situation.
My friend was really intrigued about it and when speaking to those close to this woman it transpired that what was witnessed was the definitely the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. Previously this woman was known for being shy and retiring who thought little of herself. She didn’t think she could say anything for anyone. Yet as she got to know more about Jesus and submitted herself to His leading by His Spirit so she was emboldened and enabled to be used for the benefit of others. This verse cropped up in the light of the encounter,
Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called.Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. (1 Corinthians 1:26-29)
This was not something new that God did after Jesus died and rose again. This is something God had been doing even in calling an unassuming person like Abram and a relatively unassuming people group of Israel. Even when we read about heroes of the faith like Gideon and Samson, these are not people who look the part. These are not people who characteristically would be associated with great exploits. Yet as they were chosen and empowered by God so mighty things were accomplished so that the credit could go where it belongs.
These days there’s a lot to be said about looking the part and people are impressed by having the look and appearing to be the part. Smooth operators with all the credentials appear to grab the attention. This is all the more reason why we need to remember how the gospel operates and through whom this news is spread.
It gives hope for everyone, especially those who don’t feel they look the part, to know that the Spirit of God can work through anyone. The beauty of the gospel is for everyone.
However uncharacteristic is might appear.
(Photo by Ben White on Unsplash)
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 