There is an art to asking the right question, at the right time to the right person . . . but learning how is an art as well. From the CBM New Paths Conference April 4 and 5, I now understand that sensitively asking “Where are you from?” (rather than “What do you do?”) and “How do you understand the Creator?” will help us as we open up a conversation with our First Nation, Metis and Inuit brothers and sisters. Then giving time for a response – something I personally have to work hard on – shows respect and value to the person with whom you are talking. (At the conference, I also witnessed the profound respect given to seniors…the “aunties” in particular. It was a great learning conference!)

Then I have those big one-word questions for God: Who? How? Why? Where? when?

In Mark 3:11, Jesus told his closest disciples: “When they bring you to trial and hand you over, do not worry beforehand about what you are to say; but say whatever is given you at that time, for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit.”

So whether I am in a tough spot or just bewildered about what is next, I wait for the Holy Spirit to bring the words I need for that time. And in the meantime, I will be patient, listening and waiting for His best for me.