A Trap or a Trailblazer?

In his book Blue Like Jazz Donald Miller tells about an experience he and a few other Jesus-followers had while students at Reed College in Portland, Oregon. They set up a "Confession Booth" on campus in the middle of a party weekend. Students who saw this hastily built wooden structure with a "Confession Booth" sign on it assumed they were supposed to go in there and confess their sinning to a Christian. Instead, for those who ventured in, a Christian confessed to them. Some Jesus-follower would apologize for everything Christians have done that is hurtful to people who have yet to meet Jesus...seeking forgiveness for every hurtful word, every judgmental dismissal, every act of hate and violence done "in the name of Jesus," and every way Christians have ever been a barrier to Christ himself.

Jesus said, "...stumbling blocks are sure to come, but woe to the one by whom they come." (Luke 17:1) The word translated "stumbling block" is a form of the Greek word "skandalon" which can mean "trap." Especially thinking of trapping an animal, we know that traps can injure, immobilize, and spell doom. Jesus warns us to be careful not to injure or immobilize someone who could turn to God or who is new to a relationship with Jesus. If we are a "trap" we hinder someones pathway to the presence of Jesus. Instead, we need to be "trailblazers" - clearing the path to the presence of Jesus. Consider these questions:

Have you ever been "trapped" in your faith journey by an experience involving someone who claimed to be a Christian or involving a church? Did you get past it? If so, how? If not, what would help you get past it?

Do you know of a situation in which you were more of a "trap" than a "trailblazer" for someone? Have you confessed it and sought God's forgiveness? Is there someone who needs to know that you are repentant?

How can we help each other to be trailblazers rather than traps?

I'll see you around the next bend in the river.