Monday, May 16, 2016

Wired for Stories

River above Sandstone Falls, near Hinton
Have you ever wondered about the power of stories? If you read this blog, you know I'm reading Brene Browns' book, Rising Strong. She says we are wired for story. This quote really caught me, and I think it has implications for our lives together in faith:
Neuroeconomist Paul Zak has found that hearing a story--a narrative with a beginning, middle, and end--causes our brains to release cortisol and oxytocin. These chemicals trigger the uniquely human abilities to connect, empathize, and make meaning. Story is literally n our DNA.
  1. Have you ever head the question, "Why did Jesus teach in parables?" There is your answer, in this quote. Because we are created to respond to story. Being our creator, Jesus would have understood that. It wasn't only those who were listening to him then who will respond. We respond, too. Each in a different way.
  2. This quote speaks to the work of those who preach. Tell stories that engage your listeners - God has wired his children to respond. What message is God leading you to tell? What stories can you use to get the message across?
  3. Listen to people's stories. In them, you will find God calling to who you are. 
Stories - it is the reason we know that relationships are important.  In them, we hear the stories.

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