More Than a Haircut

Sometimes we are called to speak in certain situations; at other times, we are supposed to listen, to be what is referred to as a "ministry of presence."  And, we should know the difference.  In James 1 (ESV), the Bible illustrates for us how we should appropriate the use of our mouths and our ears:
19 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;
20 for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
21 Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

It's been said that we can learn a lesson from the fact that we have two ears and one mouth.

And, a certain barber featured on The Christian Heart website listens and speaks as he uses his hands.  The first-person narrative on that website notes: "I give free haircuts once a week to men coming out of jail, rehab, or homelessness. People ask me why I do it, and the truth is simple: I know what it feels like to look in the mirror and not recognize the man staring back."

He does that because someone set an example for him during a particularly challenging time in his life.  He relates: "One day, a man invited me to sit in his chair for a haircut. That simple gesture ended up changing more than my appearance. He talked to me like I mattered. He didn’t ask about my mistakes. He just saw me. By the time he turned me back toward the mirror, I felt like maybe my life wasn’t over after all."

He describes those sessions: "We talk about life. We talk about starting over. Sometimes we don’t talk at all, because what they really need is someone to listen. I’ve had men cry quietly when they see themselves cleaned up again. One told me it was the first time he’d felt human in years."  And, after a man is cleaned up on the outside with this haircut, it becomes illustrative of the cleansing of a soul that someone can experience; the barber says: "But I tell every man who sits in my chair the same thing: “You’re not finished. God hasn’t given up on you. So, neither will I.”

So, every Thursday night, this faithful barber opens up his shop to those who are hurting, who need to open up their lives to the Savior.  He helps them walk through their pain and shame.

Interestingly enough, this is not an isolated case.  Do a search and you will see instances of barbers across the country that perform this service, even in partnership with non-profits. I think of the incredible work of Convoy of Hope and other like-minded ministries who provide haircuts, food, and a variety of other services in the name of the Lord.

God will use us when we speak or even when we sit or stand in silence.  The Holy Spirit is available to lead us, to give us words to say, and perhaps to use our ears to listen - to Him and to the other person - so that we will know what to say, in God's timing.

You can also think about the resources that God has given to us - perhaps some skill or aspect of a business can be used to minister to people who need to know and experience the love of God.   He is faithful to walk with us as we open up to the Spirit of God to direct us.