“What we see in Jesus is a presence that doesn’t place efficiency above intimacy. He was perfectly willing to accomplish his tasks more slowly if it meant being with his friends more deeply.”- John Ortberg
John Ortberg concludes Chapter 1 of I’d Like You More . . . as he takes a look at some of the experiences Jesus shared with His disciples. Even when the weight of the world rested on Jesus’ shoulders, His friends always knew He had time for them. Thus, today I highlight for of these shared experiences listed by John.
1. They walked together. Pastor Ortberg notes that taking walks was the most common thing Jesus did with His disciples. In fact, John believes Jesus’ invitation to “‘Follow Me” may represent the most life-changing and greatest invitation to intimacy ever spoken. Thus, Jesus didn’t talk about obedience, belief, or service. Those things would follow. First of all, Jesus simply invited them to go for a walk.
Also, walking is simple, very low cost, and very high connection. In addition, the New Testament often uses “walking with Jesus” to describe discipleship.
2. They ate together. For example, Jesus eagerly desired to share the Lord’s Supper with His disciples, even though He faced imminent death. What an act of intimacy!
3. They learned together. Pastor Ortberg emphasizes that learning, stretching, and growing together blesses relationships.
4. They did favors for each other. As John explains, kingdom work’s actually about love. Because, he adds, “If we’re too hurried to love, we’re too hurried period.”
In conclusion, Pastor Ortberg lists three principles that apply whether we seek intimacy with God or with one another:
- share experiences
- carve out time
- be present
So, John encourages, try it. As a result, you may discover that an ordinary day turns out to become your most intimate day with God yet.
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you avoid placing efficiency above intimacy? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: the annotated bibliography of Unseen by Sara Hagerty
