Today an unpleasant task reared its ugly head. I was called upon to tackle a tedious number of phone calls and web interactions with several businesses, and I braced myself for recorded voices, long waits, and officious personalities. And sure enough, that’s how it started off. But I began to think about Jesus and how He touched people in every situation. Could I take a different approach? How was Jesus viewing the person on the other end of the line? Oh-oh! Calvary came to mind, thanks to the Holy Spirit.
So when I finally encountered a live person, I decided to go for it. First of all, I used the person’s first name with as much affection as I could muster up, no matter how irritable he or she seemed, or how long I’d been on hold, or how many times I’d been dropped. Secondly, I warmed my voice and asked a question like, “How’s your day going?” or “How’s the weather where you are?” Astounding changes began to occur. A softening of the other voice. A real human being emerged on the other end of the receiver.
A few compliments occurred to me: “You’re really good at your job!” “Thanks so much for your patience and help!” “I couldn’t get through this without you!” And then there were the little jokes that produced a chuckle on both ends.
Well, it wasn’t John 3:16, but it was something delightful. I could sense the fragrance of Christ working into each situation. And I knew, I just knew, that the Holy Spirit was doing His work. So why not? It’s a lot more fun than getting upset!
