Katie Nelson

A month ago Joy Behar remarked, “It’s one thing to talk to Jesus. It’s another thing when Jesus talks to you. That’s called mental illness.” She was referencing Vice President Mike Pence and his faith in Jesus. She later apologized and Vice President Pence accepted saying,  “I give Joy Behar a lot of credit,” he said. “She picked up the phone. She called me. She was very sincere, and she apologized. And one of the things my faith teaches me is grace: forgive as you’ve been forgiven.” – USA Today Behar said, “I think Vice President Pence is right. I was raised to respect everyone’s religious faith, and I fell short of that. I sincerely apologize for what I said.”

All of this got me thinking…

First, what a positive interaction. I’m not sure how much traction this story is getting. I heard it on a Christian radio station today. I hope it gets attention because it was handled so well. We all say things we later regret, we all need forgiveness and to forgive and hopefully we learn from all of our experiences.

Secondly, I think Joy Behar is on to something. I bet a lot of people feel the way she does. They probably think Jesus talking to you sounds crazy. And, if I’m honest, I don’t blame them. I believe being a Christian means having a relationship with Jesus – so that means we both have to communicate with each other. Sometimes I talk and Jesus listens and other times Jesus talks and I listen. (Hopefully more of the second one!) But, if you asked me how I know Jesus is talking to me – it is difficult to explain.

I do know one thing though: When I am reading the Bible, praying, thinking about what the Bible says throughout the day and applying it to my life, I am more confident in what Jesus is saying. His “voice” (which is often heard through a verse that sticks out to me, a nudge or a feeling) seems more clear.

I think a relationship with Jesus is best experienced, not just observed. So, if you are up for it- I would recommend reading the Bible, talking to God about what it is says and what you think, and then talking to a Christian friend to get their perspective. If nothing else, it might just give you a new perspective and you might learn something about another faith.

I read this article today that was helpful to me: What happens when we pray?