Like Father, Like Son? (1 Corinthians 19:22)

In my contact list for my clients, there is a notes section where I continually update relevant personal information. Our office occasionally sends gifts of food to the physicians and office staff, so we are keenly aware of any dietary preferences or restrictions. At times, we have gone to great lengths to obtain a favorite restaurant dish or pastry to surprise our clients. The usual response is glee and thankfulness.

However, occasionally, these preparations have backfired. One particular office had several physicians and the medical practice was owned by a father and son. Both were Jewish and I had dined with the son on several occasions and knew that he was strictly kosher. Several years after I met the son, I had an opportunity to dine with the father. I assumed that he was kosher and because I knew he was fond of wine, took painstaking steps to find a high quality kosher wine. When I presented it to him, I was expecting he would be pleased by my efforts. Instead, he looked at the bottle label and sniffed, “Thanks, but I can’t stand kosher wine. My son drinks this stuff. But I don’t follow strict kosher food laws.”

Oops! This was the opposite of “like father, like son.” No worries, we enjoyed our dinner together and have since laughed about the incident. But it was a lesson I never forgot. I should not have naively assumed that one approach would fit all, even with very close family members.

...I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some.
1 Corinthians 19:22 (ESV)

The Apostle Paul never assumed he could preach the same way to the many people he met. The Bible records several sermons he gave to many different groups-gentiles, Jews, politicians. It was never presented in the same manner but the core message was the same. Repent of your sins and accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.

I pray that I will continue to be open and sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit in my life, that He will be my voice and wisdom when sharing the Gospel to all whom I meet.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.