The five minute friday prompt from Kate Motaung this week is APPROACH. This set me thinking about lessons I have learned about how to draw near to people.

MU, a global network of friendshipIn my first job with Maidstone County Council I found that I could follow the long corridors in any direction my curiosity led me as long as I carried a pile of files, walked purposefully, and looked confidently into the eyes of anyone I passed.In a later, more senior role, organising literacy and numeracy programmes in an area of deprivation I realised that carrying files was a mistake. It indicated that I was either a rent collector, or a bailiff. An open smile was better for building relationships.On short term mission in South Sudan my relationship with local people was much easier if I wore my Mothers Union scarf. MU is little known in the UK but attracts great respect in countries where their literacy and business start-up programmes make a significant difference to women’s lives.

When I go to events where I do not know anyone I feel more confident if I am dressed appropriately, and carrying relevant objects, whether a pen, a musical instrument or a rucksack. I went to an Association of Christian Writers event where I had made a mistake in my booking and did not have a valid ticket. I was very upset and wanted to leave but the organiser graciously took my name, led me to a table and introduced me to one or two people. I still felt embarrassed but I stayed, and enjoyed the rest of the day.

The subtle signals we send to people through what we carry, what we wear, and how we conduct ourselves convey an impression before we even reach them. We can show respect, friendliness, authority, as appropriate.

This raises the question of how we approach God, who says in Isaiah:

Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool……These are the ones I look on with favour: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.

Should we have special clothes, or evidence of our work, or a winning smile? Astonishingly that is not the case for those who acknowledge the saving power of his Son.

Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.