Last week, we had some friends over for dinner.  Those special kind of friends that you've known for years and have shared history with--and the kind of friends who can be completely yourself with.  They have recently been walking through a very stressful season, marked by much uncertainty.

As our conversation continued, they talked about the frustration of hearing from well meaning friends who threw a general Christian cliche or Scripture passage their way and then moved along their own merry way.  Don't get me wrong, they appreciated the general kind intent of these friends, but they find these gestures rather empty as far as easing their pain and anxiety.  

I know just what they mean.  I can remember my conflict when such niceties were thrown my way during my season of grief.  On the one hand, I knew such friends to be concerned and kind in general, and I appreciated that they had no idea exactly what to say.  At least they were trying.  But on the other hand, their attempts so missed the mark that I felt frustrated by it.  I laughed in complete understanding when my friend said, "I know they mean well, but it feels as though they just want to throw a little Jesus dust my way and head along.  What I really want is someone to sit and listen and allow me to share my feelings."

I've thought about this conversation many times since last week.  I've found myself thinking through my own interactions.  Have I wanted to just throw a little "Jesus dust" at a friend, hoping it'll make some magical quick difference so that I don't really have to get involved?  Or, am I willing to be like that Casting Crowns' song Love Them Like Jesus?