The Danger of Monologue

Les Henson

One of the dangers of communicating the Gospel of the kingdom is not merely talking too much. But also, that of engaging in a monologue. We do so not only in the pulpit but also in those conversations that could be deeply meaningful. If only we relaxed and engaged in normal conversation instead of a religious or theological monologue. Some of the best and most meaningful conversations I have had occurred almost accidentally: Over a meal or a lazy unhurried time over coffee. Or just hanging out with someone telling stories and having a laugh together, or even shedding the odd tear. It is usually those times that people open up, particularly when I spend my time listening. It’s as if listening and being heard causes something to be triggered, allowing them to open up and ask deep and meaningful questions. So let us avoid monologues and open ourselves to the kind of dialogue and the listening that shows that we care for people more than we do for religious or theological discussion. Maybe then we will find people more open to the thing of the kingdom than we ever imagine they would be.