From the backgrounds mentioned, we can see
that each person can inspire enough interest in any observer to spark a lengthy
conversation, or topic for discussion.
Let's assume that we decided to talk about
the Train Spotter. We could quiet easily write a large book on this hobby, so
this hobby should be fascinating enough for people who are not in the know to
ask questions or do a research to find out what it is like to be a Train Spotter.
What about our colleague the Vintage Car
Owner; has anyone ever ventured into the complex world of vintage vehicles?
This hobby is made up of a web of all kinds of cars.
The same goes for our friend, who is a Sikh,
his religion intrigues many around the world due to its complicated list of Dos
and don'ts that makes some other conventional religious convictions look like
child's play.
The Football Fan can also cause raised
eye brows. Many fans have stirred controversy due to their unwavering support
and promotion of their preferred team. Some fans are happy to fight, maim, or
even kill to protect the interest and image of their beloved sports team.
The body-builder rushes out of the office
after work because he does not want to arrive late for his work-out session in
the local gym. He goes there five evenings a week, at times to the neglect of
his wife and children. This fella is so deep into acquiring bigger and stronger
muscles that his hobby is often classed as a religion by some observers.
Let's look at our neighbour the Fitness
Enthusiast. She is married and has four little kids. For three evenings each
week, she leaves the domestics for her long-suffering husband to care for; and
darts off to her beloved fitness centre. She is almost obsessed with keeping
fit, and nothing will stand in her way.
Just imagine that you decided to talk about
her dedication to this interest; you'll probably go on for a whole day as there
is so much to talk about. Also, she would be happy to discuss this hobby which
is one of the most important things in her life.
WHY JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES ARE, AND ARE NOT
DIFFERENT
That brings us then to our main topic - what
makes Jehovah's Witnesses different from these other people?
On an interactive level, the Witness should
not be different, or treated differently from his colleagues and neighbours.
If we are willing to be tolerant enough not
to criticise the Sikh, or ostracise the Football Fan, why then do many people
view Jehovah's Witnesses with suspicion?
Why are they not respected and/or accepted
just like everyone else?
These other people pursue certain interests
and hobbies simply because they view them as very important. So they invest
lots of time and money in their effort to realise their ambitions.
No one will persecute the Plane Spotter
because his pastime is regarded by some as weird.
Yes, the Witnesses knock on doors on Saturday
mornings, and some find this offensive. Some regard it as intrusion.
Still, these peace-loving preachers of the
Good News have persisted in propagating their Bible-based beliefs because they
view it as a commission or assignment.
They did not choose to waive the Saturday
morning lay-in just to pursue an interest.
They did not spend their car fuel simply to
pursue some form of social entertainment.
And they did not brace the terrible weather
to search for a listening ear just because they had nothing else to do.
Every dedicated Jehovah's Witness loves his
neighbour.
That explains why he is willing to risk
prejudice, arrest, beatings, and imprisonment (as has happened in some lands) to share his faith.
He is convinced that the message he bears
will put his neighbour in line for life in a paradise earth if this neighbour
accepted the message and come to worship Jehovah.
The Witness loves those around him so much
that he is not willing to hide or hoard this beautiful prospect.
Therefore it is surprising why many are
against these kind people. Perhaps the reason is embedded in the remarks of
Christ at John 15:20 “If they have persecuted me, they will also
persecute you.”
Yes, they should be treated with tolerance
just like everyone else.
If anything, they should actually be
respected a bit more due to the reasons behind their decision to pursue a Bible
education work.
Their colleagues and neighbours pursue
certain hobbies for well know reasons; but Jehovah's Witnesses pursue their
activities because of the pure love (A.ga'pe) they have for their
fellowman.
