How many times have you been in a situation where you have to participate in an "icebreaker?" You know, when you find yourself in a room full of strangers and an icebreaker question or game is imposed. The purpose is to get you to share something about yourself so that the group has some idea of who you are and your background. All to facilitate connection and introduction.
What about situations where you have to provide your resume? A sheet of paper that lists your interests, experience, background and all your accomplishments.
We can all agree that both scenarios only provide a glimpse into the person but, both offer a decent start in learning about a person.
Getting to know someone takes action and effort. Maybe it’s attending a seminar, going on a blind-date or approaching a new co-worker and inviting them to lunch. Introductions and icebreakers come in handy to help us start in the “getting to know you process.”
What about getting to know Jesus?
It is clear that many are intrigued by Christ as He can stir up questions and controversy in equal measure.
Ever heard any of these?
“Was Jesus a real person?”
"Did Jesus claim to be the Son of God?"
"Did Jesus perform miracles?"
"Did Jesus die on the Cross and rise from the dead or did His followers simply hide His body?”
“Wasn’t Jesus just a good teacher and nothing more?”
So many questions, where do you even start to find the answers? (Hint: Not google!)
You don't have to look far- Jesus’ icebreakers and resume can all be found in the Book of John in the New Testament.
In this one book, the Apostle John shares who Jesus is in very personable demonstrative ways- giving us a glimpse into His character, His abilities, and His mission.
It is a biography of sorts that highlights Jesus' genuine love and compassion as seen in the seven miracles performed by Jesus and seven “I Am” statements declared by Jesus. (Chapters 2 to 15)
Seven Miracles
Turning water into wine (John 2:1-12)
Healing the nobleman’s son (John 4:46-54)
Healing the lame man (John 5:1-17)
Feeding the 5,000 (John 6:1-13)
Walking on water (John 6:16-21)
Healing the man born blind (John 9:1-41)
Raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:1-45)
Seven I Am Statements
I am the Bread of Life (John 6:35, 48,51)
I am the Light of the World (John 8:12)
I am the Door/Gate (John 10:7)
I am the Good Shepherd (John 10:11-14)
I am the Resurrection & the Life (John 11:25)
I am the Way, the Truth & the Life (John 14:6)
I am the True Vine (John 15:1)
I love C.S Lewis' interpretation of Jesus: "Come to Me everyone who is carrying a heavy load, I will set that right. Your sins, all of them, are wiped out, I can do that. I am re-birth, I am life, eat me, drink me, I am your food. And finally, do not be afraid, I have overcome the whole universe."
Read the text for yourself, unfold the layers and get to the heart of Jesus.
I believe you will find a man like no other with an unmatched resume and who has some icebreakers that will drop the mic!
He is definitely worth your time and effort to get to know because He is THE ONE person who can actually change your life!
Thank you, Father, for giving us your living Word. May we come to know the real Jesus and embrace all He has to offer - provision, protection, healing, peace, joy and eternal life.
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” ~ 2 Peter 3:18