This article is not about what you just thought when you read the headline. There is nothing here about homosexuals or the military.  If you are truly interested in the phrase “Don’t ask. Don’t tell.” keep reading. This is not just a Springfield problem or a Christian concern. All human beings are guilty of these two errors. Asking someone a question and not really wanting to listen to the answer.

Walk down any street anywhere in the world and stop a stranger and ask the question, “How are you?” In Germany, you can say, “Vie Geht’s?” Every culture and language has one of these overtaxed phrases that are used when you are not the least bit interested but want to appear to be. While the same words can come from the mouth of one who is concerned, often the phrase is only a greeting and does not truly mean that the other person cares.

In churches, supermarkets, Wal-Mart or bars you experience the same concern or lack thereof.  Often Christians are as guilty of treating each other and non-Christians with the same nonchalance. Try this the next time you think someone is truly asking about your health, disposition, or financial status, tell them how you really are. 

This has been preached from pulpits with ministers telling their congregations they should be more concerned and interested in others because Jesus was. The good results usually end when someone is greeted by the same pastor who preached it and his eyes glaze over and he responds with some cliches like, “I’m sorry. I hope next week is better for you.” and turns away.

“Little Christ” is what Christianity means. Using Him as an example His followers must show the concern that He demonstrated with the Samaritan woman at the well. He went to that well specifically to see her. Then she was perplexed that a Jew would ask her as a Samaritan and a woman for a drink, He explained to her who He was and why He did not act like the Jews that she had seen before. He set a new standard for those who followed Him. Has this been forgotten in the Church?

Remember not to ask a question, if you do not want to take the time to hear the answer. Don’t ask the question, if you are uninterested in the answer.  Don’t tell people you care about them and forget to prove it to them. After all, this Springfield is in Missouri and you have to show them.

©Copyright 2025 by Charles Kensinger