The Three C’s of Communication:
In our journey through life, whether in our personal relationships, professional endeavors, or spiritual growth, effective communication is paramount. But what if there was a divine pattern for communication that could transform our interactions and lead to more fruitful outcomes? Intriguingly, such a pattern emerges from an unexpected source – the book of Revelation.
While Revelation is often associated with end-time prophecies and apocalyptic imagery, hidden within its pages is a beautiful communication strategy that Jesus uses to address the seven churches. This pattern, which we’ll call the Three C’s of Communication, consists of Celebrate, Center, and Charge.
Celebrate: The Power of Affirmation
Jesus begins His messages to each church by acknowledging their strengths and accomplishments. He celebrates their faithfulness, perseverance, and love. This approach isn’t just a polite opener; it’s a powerful affirmation that sets the tone for the entire message.
In our own lives, how often do we jump straight into criticism or demands without first recognizing the good? Whether we’re addressing our spouse, children, colleagues, or even ourselves, starting with celebration can disarm defensiveness and open hearts to what follows.
Consider the impact of beginning a conversation with your teenager by celebrating their recent achievements before discussing areas of concern. Or imagine starting a team meeting by highlighting recent successes before delving into challenges. This approach, rooted in grace, mirrors Christ’s heart for His people.
Center: Clarity and Truth
After celebration, Jesus centers His message on truth and clarity. He addresses areas that need attention or correction, but always in the context of His love and the church’s identity in Him. This centering provides a clear vision of where they are and where they need to go.
In our communication, centering involves bringing clarity to expectations, goals, or areas of growth. It’s not about harsh criticism but about lovingly guiding towards a preferred future. For instance, in a marriage, centering might look like revisiting shared values and dreams before discussing challenges. In a work environment, it could mean clarifying team objectives and individual roles.
Charge: Empowerment for Action
Finally, Jesus concludes each message with a charge – a call to action empowered by His promises. He doesn’t just point out problems; He provides motivation and assurance for moving forward. “To the one who overcomes,” He says, offering rewards that inspire and energize.
In our own contexts, charging involves empowering others (or ourselves) to take action based on what has been celebrated and clarified. It’s about instilling confidence, providing resources, and painting a picture of what success looks like.
Imagine ending a family discussion about finances not just with a budget plan, but with an inspiring vision of the financial freedom and generosity you’ll be able to practice. Or concluding a business planning meeting with a powerful prayer that charges everyone to step out in faith.
The Divine Pattern in Action
This pattern of Celebrate, Center, and Charge isn’t just a communication technique; it’s a reflection of God’s heart towards us. Throughout Scripture, we see this pattern at work. When Jesus encounters Peter and asks, “Who do you say I am?” Peter responds, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus’s response embodies the Three C’s:
Celebrate: “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah…”
Center: “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church…”
Charge: “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven…”
Even in prayer, we can apply this pattern. Beginning with thanksgiving and praise (Celebrate), focusing on God’s truth and our needs (Center), and then stepping out in faith-filled action (Charge).
Transforming Our Environments
Imagine the impact of consistently applying this pattern in our daily lives:
- In parenting, focusing on shaping our children’s future rather than just correcting behavior.
- In leadership, reorienting teams around a preferred future instead of dwelling on past mistakes.
- In our church community, creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and empowered.
By starting with grace, clarifying truth, and empowering action, we create environments where transformation can flourish.
A Call to Practice
As we reflect on this divine pattern of communication, let’s challenge ourselves to intentionally incorporate it into our daily interactions. Here are some practical steps:
- Before addressing any issue, take a moment to genuinely celebrate something positive.
- Be clear and specific when centering on truth or expectations.
- Always end with a charge that inspires and empowers action.
This isn’t about formulaic communication but about aligning our hearts with God’s way of relating to us. It’s about leading with grace, speaking truth in love, and inspiring others to live into their God-given potential.
As we practice the Three C’s, we may find that our conversations become more fruitful, our relationships deepen, and our environments are increasingly marked by grace and growth. In doing so, we reflect the heart of Christ, who always sees the best in us, speaks truth to us, and empowers us to become all that He has created us to be.
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