Let’s get practical about encounter

Some time ago Mike Jordan Laskey observed “It’s Time for a Theology of Encounter”.

That word, “encounter,” is one of Pope Francis’ favorites, popping up often in his public addresses and used 32 times in his apostolic exhortation, The Joy of the Gospel. Keep in mind this document lays out his vision of church and how it should function. Laskey writes…

So here is a call for professional theologians to think and write about encounter, for ordained and lay ministers to create and share pastoral initiatives around encounter, and for the rest of the faithful to talk about and practice encounter in our daily lives.

I think a robust “theology of encounter” might be a key to helping Catholic social teaching finally shed its sad tagline as the “best-kept secret” of the church.

Jesus models encounter

Never one to shy away from sharing his insights and tough questions, Lasky offers a contribution to the conversation.  

He sees the parable of the good Samaritan as one of scripture’s finest examples of encounter: His unpacking of the parable is very rich. I encourage you to read his brief descriptions of each point he highlights. It may change your reading of the parable.

• Encounter requires physical movement across traditional boundaries. (A Samaritan reaching out to a Jew)
• Encounter requires a willingness to change plans. (He interrupted his Journey)
• Encounter requires careful discernment. (He realizes what the victim can or not do.)
• Encounter requires follow-through. (He commits to followup.)
• Encounter requires systemic change. (He recognizes the bigger picture.)

Variations on a theme

Susan Stabile, a good friend, offered her “variations on the theme” using other scenes from Jesus’ life.

Jesus models compassion first, without regard to whether it is earned.

For example… Jesus encounter with Zacchaeus the tax collector

Questions for reflection:  

• Can I offer love and compassion without regard to whether it is deserved?  
• Can I make the first move, giving the other an opportunity to respond with grace.

Jesus models speaking the truth with love.

For example… Jesus’ encounters with the woman caught in adultery and with the Samaritan Woman at the well.

Questions for reflection:

• Can I find ways to encourage others in a more positive fashion?  
• Do I lead with their shortcomings or begin with connection?

Jesus models acceptance of what the other is capable of giving.

For example… Jesus’ encounter with the rich young man and with Peter at the beach at the end of John’s Gospel.

Questions for reflection:  

Do I accept what others are able to offer or do I create unreasonable expectations of others and then resent when they don’t meet my expectations?

Jesus models an openness to learning from others.

For example… Jesus’ encounter with the Canaanite woman who asks him to heal her daughter.

Questions for reflection:

• Am I open to allowing others to expand my understanding?  
• Or do I think I already have all of the answers?

Jesus shows us that true encounter means opening ourselves to vulnerability.

For example… Jesus’ crying at the death of Lazarus; Jesus asking his apostles to be with him in the garden.

Questions for reflection

•  Am I willing to show vulnerability before others?  
• Or do I feel the need to hide behind a mask of strength?

A “mind-wrinkling” exercise…

• Think of a specific instance when I imitated Jesus’ model of encounter
• Can I own specific instances when I did not imitate Jesus’ model of encounter.

Click below for an audio version of the Vincentian Mindwalk