You don’t exist to me
A real slap in the face
A while back, I was chatting with a woman, and she told me something that really stuck with me: her next-door neighbour just stopped greeting her. How hurtful is that? You literally bump into each other daily, and then suddenly, the other person acts like you’re invisible. It’s just so annoying, especially when you haven’t got the faintest idea why. Why the sudden silence? It really eats at you, honestly.
And this whole phenomenon of being ignored, you see it everywhere. Almost everyone has experienced that feeling of not being seen, of not mattering. That cuts deep, believe me. Often, there’s some history behind it, a moment of tension. Just think about relationships: a tiny argument, and poof, the silent treatment begins. Or kids, who feel completely invisible when their parents ignore them. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, this affects people from all walks of life.
Ignoring others and the fallout
Ignoring someone is often a reaction to conflict, or maybe to something hurtful that was said. But sometimes, you genuinely have no clue what’s going on, and that’s just so frustrating! Let’s be honest, ignoring someone is just plain immature. Especially when there’s absolutely no communication. Of course, we all do it sometimes, those moments when you just can’t be bothered with someone. But it’s crucial to realise that you’re only causing more damage by doing so.
The consequences aren’t minor. Being ignored can lead to feelings of rejection, a mountain of stress, and even depression. You start second-guessing yourself: “What did I do wrong?” It’s a kind of passive aggression, and it can really cause intimidation, particularly when it comes from people in a position of power, like teachers, your parents, or your boss. That’s just not okay.
God’s invitation
By the way, I find it super interesting how this phenomenon also pops up in the Bible. Think about that story of the king who invites his guests to his son’s feast. He’s prepared everything, the catering is sorted, but what do the invited guests do? They ignore his invitation! That’s painful, isn’t it? Not just for the king, but for God too.
When I read that more than half of Dutch people no longer believe and turn their backs on God, I find that truly tragic. People are often far too busy with their own lives and ignore God’s invitations time and again. God calls to all of us, but so many people leave those invitations unanswered. That leads to so much more suffering in the world, while God actually wants to offer us something beautiful and meaningful. He didn’t create us for nothing, you know. He wants our lives to be a party, full of joy and connection.
What are we waiting for?
That’s why, and this is serious, it’s so important to take your relationship with God seriously. Don’t ignore His invitations and promises, especially in these turbulent times. The Bible also says: “Many are called, but few are chosen.” God invites everyone, but only a few truly respond.
So, I invite you to participate in this feast that God has prepared for us. Let’s not ignore God’s voice, but rather be open to His words full of love and trust. If we understand His Spirit and read His Word, we’ll find peace and rest amidst all the chaos in the world. Let’s celebrate God’s feast together and embrace His invitation. Thanks for listening, and I hope to meet you again next time.
God bless!
@wimvanputten