Most of you who know me, know I really enjoy fishing - especially one particular type - jig fishing for crappie.  Typically when crappie fishing is mentioned, images of minnows, cane poles and bobbers come to mind.  But jig fishing is quite different.

During the springtime, fishermen flood the shores of lakes looking to catch a 'mess' of crappie for the table.  At this time, it becomes very apparent the difference between those who jig and those who use minnows.

Jig fisherman have a tendency to move around a lot.  They typically spend very little time in one area if it doesn't quickly produce results.  Minnow fisherman usually sit still, patiently watching their bobbers, hoping to see it move.  In essence, the minnow fisherman waits for the fish to come to them, while the jig fisherman moves about to go to the fish.  There are always exceptions to the fisherman - sometimes a jig person who stays in one spot, or a minnow user who moves about.  But they are just that - exceptions.

Minnow fisherman tend to see jig users to be a bit 'snooty.'  And there's good reason - most jig fisherman have a tendency to see minnow people as less 'sportsman' as themselves.  They even call them names (behind each other's backs, of course!) like, 'minnow drowners' or 'space invaders.'  Minnow fisherman get irritated with jig people constantly trying walk all about and over their equipment.  They can't understand why you just can't be still for a minute and quit disturbing the serenity of the situation.  Jig fisherman wish the minnow people who get their 'up-teen' loads of equipment out of the way so they can work through an area. 

And so the tension goes.

But somehow, everyone manages, and usually, for those who have a clue about what they are doing, they both catch some fish.

And that's the point isn't it?  They are both after the same thing, though they are employing different styles and techniques.  And, given enough time, they both are successful in what they are trying to accomplish. 

Oh yes, and there's little hope in getting either to change their style - even if they see the other one doing a bit better on the catch.  They just know their day will come around when the tables will be turned in their favor.  And they are usually right.

I don't think it's so different in how Christ's people function in the kingdom in trying to reach people with the good news.  They have different methods.  They all think 'their way' is the right way.  And quite often, they get on each other's nerves.  Yet, they are both after the same thing.  Introducing lost people to the only One who can save them and bring them home. 

I'm a jig fisherman.  And I now have quite a few friends who are 'minnow drowners', because we both know that we both love to catch those fish.  Likewise in my brethren in the church all around.

And you just had to know that it was only a matter of time before a good fishing illustration was going to come out in my blog..... :)

jas