Godin #2 - You Are an Expert

"Everybody is an expert about something."

"You're an expert at something."

What comes to your mind when you read those two quotes? If you finish this sentence, "I am an expert in..." what do come up with? Take a second to think about that and complete the sentence. "I am an expert in..."

Is your answer related to your work? Your faith? Your family? Your hobbies? Maybe you are an expert in Civil War re-enactment supply sources. Maybe you have multiple sub folders in your browser's bookmark tab for the many categories of supplies required for an authentic civil war re-enactment.

Did any of you answer like this; "I am an expert in me."

No other person knows you, like you. Your story is unique and filled with exciting twists and turns but, most people do not find their own story very interesting. I think it is because it has just always been. Until you get an outside view it seems so...normal. I have a few leading questions I ask when I meet someone for the first time. The questions are intended to unearth interesting themes or passions in someone. I am always fascinated with the many significant moments in a persons life that they simply do not see as significant. I learned the first question from my friend Jeremy, "Where were you born and brought up?" This questions leads to so many rich stories and insights into a person. The second is, "What is something you love and when did you discover that passion?" This second question not only gives me insight into what really drives this person, but usually a significant moment in their life when they discovered this previously unearthed passion.

As a follower of Jesus you have story after story after story of how your life has intersected his. You have moments where you are confronted with the reality of who Jesus is and what it means to follow him. You have those dark times when you question and the bright times when He comes through again. You are an expert in how your story intertwines with His.

What if we sought to let our true expertise come through in each conversation? What if when talking about an area of passion, like your civil war hobbies, you brought it into the greater context of how your story fits within the overarching story of God's mission, how Jesus rescued you and has redeemed your hobbies for His glory?

When you share from your true area of expertise, people will see a depth in your eyes and sense the authenticity in your voice. Man, talk about making meaning! Wow! And I honestly dont think it has to be hard, forced or unnatural. Just be you. Be honest and be you.