OK that's not exactly what Genesis 1.27 says, but the sentiment is true nonetheless.
Sometimes I hear the word "Introvert" used as a dirty word, a term for everything Extroverted culture doesn't understand or value. It's a prejudice that can create shame for Introverts and it fails to recognize the fullness of God's image. Introverts are not crippled Extroverts. We are an intentional part of the full breadth of God's image.
We don't dislike people. We don't avoid hard things. We don't flee from meaningful exchanges. We don't wish we were Extroverts--except maybe when we're at a party where we have to network.
We contribute stillness in a world of frenzy. We offer a listening ear when others are speaking. We engage in reflection in the face of impulsiveness.
Being Introverted or Extroverted, technically speaking, has to do with where we draw our energy. Introverts gain energy from the inside and Extroverts gain energy from the outside. One is made to set ablaze from a spark in the quiet and the other to pour forth the power taken in from a waterfall. There are distinct differences in the way we engage with the world, build relationships, communicate, recharge, and what strengths we bring to the table. But, God can be seen in both...he is a still small voice speaking intimately to one and he is a pillar of light to a multitude.
Sometimes we, as the Church, label personality traits as Christian character. Being joyful must mean being a bubbly, smiley person, right? Sharing the Gospel looks like engaging as many people in a day as possible, right? Living in Christian fellowship means being talkative and always engaging others, right? Worshiping God looks like demonstrative passion, right?
Yes! And...joy looks like a determined smile, evangelism is a slow build through relationship, fellowship is a deep one-on-one conversation, worship is being awed into silence before God Almighty.
Introverts and Extroverts will serve differently. We will fellowship differently. We will engage in spiritual growth differently. Yet it is these differences that will carry out the Great Commission with depth and breadth.
Introverts and Extroverts will serve differently. We will fellowship differently. We will engage in spiritual growth differently. Yet it is these differences that will carry out the Great Commission with depth and breadth.
It is only together that we can more fully reflect God's image. What beautiful things we can learn from one another, what fantastic gifts we can give to one another, and what a full mission we can accomplish if given the freedom to celebrate the uniqueness we bring to the table in the context of One Body.
