Chatty strangers are put on this earth to test impatient-bent Christians. Whether they catch us on a good or bad day, there seems to be an underlying urge to avoid them, or be annoyed by them.

What makes a stranger open up to another stranger? We all desire a sense of connection. We all know what it’s like to feel lonely or tuned out in rudeness, anger, or indifference. But, in this age of everyone standing on their personal soapboxes, it’s so much easier to speak than to listen!

“Remember this, my dear brothers and sisters: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and should not get angry easily” (James 1:19 GW).

Note that the apostle James mentions “everyone” in his reminder. That means we all can be quick to listen if we prayerfully work at it. And listening isn’t only hearing, but it’s “listening” to body language as well. We know the physical cues of people in need. Let’s slow down and listen. Let’s acknowledge their presence with Jesus’ presence in us—giving them our full attention and some precious time.

Doesn’t even a small moment of real human connection ring true for both parties and bring God glory?