I never imagined my career would involve so much computer time when I was younger. I always thought I’d be hands-on, working with people and changing lives. But times have changed with technology, and thank God, He had better plans for my life. I have always loved reading, writing and telling stories. At first, it was all fiction. I love it when I get an opportunity to let my imagination go wild. But in the last few years, especially because of my role at CBN, I’ve discovered the beauty of telling the stories of other people and about the truth of Jesus Christ.
Learning from Jesus
Jesus was an incredible storyteller, and, in many ways, that has helped shape the way I view story telling. He used story telling to teach lessons, to get people to think, to demonstrate the power of the truth in love, and so much more. Last year I started studying psychology with the purpose of helping people tell their stories with the intention of healing, of being restored to wellbeing. I truly believe that Jesus used stories to not only teach us, but to demonstrate the power of stories.
Another lesson I’ve learnt from Jesus is from His encounter with the woman at the well. The woman knew she had sinned, and Jesus knew it too, yet He didn’t turn from her sin or make her feel ashamed about it. He chatted to her and at the end of the conversation, embraced her. He embraced the outcast. Watching this encounter unfold on The Chosen (a series on YouTube that I’d highly recommend) really blew my mind. Our communication with others, Christian or not, should leave them feeling loved. And if God wills it, it should make them run around telling people about His goodness and truth.
Practically using lessons learnt
In my role, I get to help people tell their stories. Whether it’s an email about a new event, a social media post about our latest campaign, or a This is Me recording… All the communications I do is in some way telling a story, giving a voice to people who otherwise wouldn’t tell their stories. The projects we do and the organisations we work with are largely to restore dignity, to give people voices, to love people practically. And by running a campaign, giving an update or showing a video… We’re telling the story of people who Jesus loves unconditionally – outcasts or not.
And that is work that gets me excited. It’s not just work, it’s Kingdom work. And we’re doing it together.
By partnering with us you’re helping us tell these very important, beautiful stories. I would really encourage you to take some time to go through our social media pages, CBN South Africa and Superbook Mzansi. Take a look at what God is doing through us – you included. I hope it excites you the way it excites me. We truly are stronger together. If something gets you excited, share it with a friend and let them share in the excitement! When we bring all our “why’s” and purposes together, God really works in magnificent ways. If you are not a partner yet, but would like to be one, click the donate button below.
I would LOVE to hear your story. To hear what God has placed on your heart. Please reach out to me at robyn.hattingh@cbnsa.org and I’d love to chat with you. It can be about your story, a story you love, or even just to find out more about CBN SA and the work that we do.
