Keeping Company

“Audience, audience, audience.” That’s what Dr. Morris at Parkland Junior College repeated in the Creative Non-Fiction class I took in spring, 2005. “Who is your audience? Are you writing for teenagers, Christians, Midwesterners, Asians, baby boomers, tattoo artists, working class, white collar, atheists?”

“Who’s your client?” That’s what I learned in psychotherapy training. What’s on their mind when they walk through the door? Does the world feel safe or scary? What have they tried to solve their problems before they sat in your chair? What’s their educational and social background? What are their deepest beliefs about themselves, others, life, and ultimate reality? Imagine yourself in their place.

“Who are you talking to?” It’s what I try to remember in everyday life. How’s their day been? What are they feeling–tired, scared, happy, sad, angry, lonely? How’s their family? What small word or gesture might help them bear their load? Or, if they’re rejoicing, how can I join with them?

Whether we write or do psychotherapy or talk to neighbors, friends, and acquaintances, we fulfill Jesus’ command to love each other (John 13:34) when we put ourselves in the other person’s place. Discerning the recipient’s perspective allows us to join them in their space. Love means being company for each other through this fallen world.

God set the agenda when he came to be company for us, in Jesus. He put himself in our place. He knows his audience and sends his messages in words we can understand. “Come to me.” “Trust me.” “Watch for me.”

Jesus, thank you for knowing each one of us. Thank you for your empathy. Thank you for simple words that we can receive. More, Lord. More.