Approachability

(come on, I'm nicer than you think)

Last Friday the YMCA of Greater Toledo held an all-staff retreat. It was great to get together with 100 fellow employees and talk about the important work of our organization. The morning was devoted to business discussions but the afternoon featured a very interesting topic. Scott Ginsburg spoke to our group about the power of approachability. About how being outgoing, friendly, and taking the first step with people, can yield unexpected (and positive) results. He closed by quoting Hebrews 13:2 “Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by doing so; some have entertained angels, with out knowing it.” What a great tie in!

I believe one of the essential themes of the New Testament is approachability. The priests of the Old Testament approached the Holy of Holies but once a year; and then in a very precise and measured way. But in a “new and living way” Hebrews 14:16 says we can “approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” God is perfect and holy. I am imperfect and sinful. The two cannot coexist absent the grace found through faith in Christ.

We can be approachable to people by smiling, asking questions, or even by wearing a name tag 24/7. God is approachable to people by their faith. Nothing more and nothing less.

Thanks for all you do.

Brian

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