What do you think of the idea of surrender? Is this the worst thing that can happen to you, as a fugitive with no chance to escape or a solider facing certain defeat? This concept is normally associated with defeat and loss of control, freedom, agency, and autonomy; the things you hold most dear. Yet I have called you surrender to me. Can you see why this call meets with resistance from those on the outside who don’t understand? What has been your experience with surrender to me? For I am not calling you to surrender to domination, but to love which gives you life.

Do you know the difference between empathy and sympathy? These terms sound similar, but they have different meanings. Sympathy is feeling for and empathy is feeling with. If these still sound similar consider the concept of feeling sorry for. This can also be described as pity and it is something that can be done from a distance, with no personal relationship or connection. Empathy is not something that can be expressed with detachment. It requires a sense of solidarity with the one who is suffering.

Do you like to connect with other people? This is a universal human longing. I put it in you. It is not good for the man to be alone. This extends beyond marriage. You can encounter people without being unequally yoked with them. People do not thrive on isolation and alienation, so you benefit others as well as yourself by connecting with them. Can you extend this valuable process to the next step? Do you introduce your friends to each other when you think they are a good fit and it would be beneficial for both? Do you see yourself and relationships enhanced or diminished in the process?

Do you identify as an evangelical? This implies that you take the Great Commission seriously, and are willing to work in my fields and vineyards for the harvest. You have a message and a mission, but in another sense you are the message. Will unbelievers be convinced of the validity of your claims if they don’t see something desirable in those who have already responded to the message? And so I have told you to let your light shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify me. Paul described his life as an open book. This applies to yours as well. What does yours say?