When we think about trained responders our thoughts generally run to people such as EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians). Their extensive training kicks in during emergency situationsโallowing them to deliver the right kind of care almost instinctively.
Navigators believe that there are some parallels in the life of a disciple. They train individuals in the disciplines of the Christian life so that when an appropriate situation arises they, too, will be able to respond instinctively.
Navigator Brett Clark knows what thatโs like. He had befriended a man from Russiaโa painterโwho wasnโt a believer in Christ. As the two men looked at one of the artistโs paintings (entitled Across the Bridge, shown here), the painter told Brett that there were two things he needed to understand about the painting. First, it is up to someone to make a decision to cross the bridge themselves. Second, he explained, that no one can force anyone to cross the bridge.
As Brett studied the painting, he was reminded of another illustration involving a bridge heโd learned during his Navigator training. Itโs used to illustrate the separation between God and sinful menโand how God bridges that gap through Jesus. Brett had drawn out that illustration many, many times. His training kicked in and he was able to communicate the truth of the Gospel to the artistโusing the artistโs own painting. It wasnโt the specific tool that was important, it was his training that allowed him to respond to an opportunity provided by the Holy Spirit.
That painting now hangs in Brettโs Colorado Springs home. A short while later, a neighbor, who doesnโt know Christ yet, was over for an open house and was looking at Brettโs painting. As they talked, Brett shared with him the two important points the artist had shared with him about the painting. The neighbor replied, โThat kind of goes along with your Navigator thing, doesnโt it?โ Being ready as a โtrained responder,โ Brett was able to use the painting once again to share the truth of the Gospel with his neighbor.
The apostle Peter wrote, โbut sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverenceโ (1 Peter 3:15). Are you trained as a spiritual โresponder?โ
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