People, Not Culture
Third, knowing people is different than going tomovies. I think the whole discussion of being culturally aware dodgesthe real work of knowing lost people deeply. I am called to love andserve them for Christ. I am called to help them when they have maritalproblems, children problems, and are living with effects of their sin.I am called to relate to them in what we have in common. And we have alot in common. They are made in Godʼs image. They know love and hate,sadness and joy, and the beauty of music and creation. I do not need tofocus on the unique culture of our times, so much as on the real peoplearound me.
This means I am to know individuals. I have never met statisticalaverages. I only know my friends, neighbors, co-workers, classmates. Ineed to get to know their questions, histories, backgrounds, objectionsto the Gospel. I am to treat them with deepest respect.