In Episode 41, Lauren invites you to experience your own strangers on the way activation. Get a piece of paper and a pen and jump into this healing experience.

In just a moment, there will be an opportunity for you to reflect on the people and places in your own story. Think of the name of a friend, a family member, a person or a leader in your life who describes a specific attribute. On a sheet of paper, write down the name of that person. It's recommended you move through the list quickly and go with your first instinct. If you think of the same person for multiple questions, that is okay. Write that person’s name down on multiple lines.

Ready…set…go!

1. Who is the most loving person you know?

2. Who is the boldest person you know?

3. Who is the gentlest person you know?

4. Who is the most loyal person you know?

5. Who is the most peaceful person you know?

6. Who is the smartest person you know?

7. Who is the most generous person you know?

8. Who is the most willing person you know?

9. Who is the most reliable person you know?

10. Who is the most trustworthy person you know?

11. Who is the funniest person you know?

12. Who is the most patient person you know?

13. Who is the coolest person in you know?

14. Who is the most optimistic person you know?

15. Who is the most fun?

16. Who is the most creative person you know?

17. Who is the humblest person you know?

18. Who is the most forgiving person you know?

19. Who is the most encouraging person you know?

20. Who is the most authentic person in your life?

21. Who is the strongest person you know?

22. Who is the most fatherly person in your life?

23. Who is the most motherly person in your life?

Now imagine the faces of all these people you just listed in your mind. All their best characteristics give us a glimpse into the face of Jesus. Jesus is loving and gentle and bold and strong and authentic and funny. He is the sum of the best people we know — plus a million times more.

As you were going through the list, did you notice some blank spots? That’s okay. These are simply aspects of Jesus that you haven’t experienced yet. Scan through your list and notice which characteristic is highlighted to you most, the one you are most longing for.

Take three deep breaths and let your body sink into your chair. Ask God, “God, how are you the most [insert characteristic] in my life?” and wait for his reply. If it helps, picture yourself sitting on a bench with Jesus as you ask that question.

Thank you for taking this journey with me. It is just the beginning for you and I believe the best is yet to come.

Lauren L. Hansen, M.Ed., is a natural storyteller who believes that love + words can set people free. She is an author, editor, and Chief Encouragement Officer who partners with Jesus to connect people to him, their sense of self, and others. You can find her leading workshops, speaking at events and helping to pioneer Fusion USA, a ministry that equips churches to welcome and disciple college students. She is the author of Strangers on The Way: Finding God Through the People We Meet. When she’s not writing or speaking, Lauren enjoys having impromptu living room dance parties with her large extended family in Chicago. Visit her online at laurenhansencreative.com.