My attention was grabbed today as I read a short excerpt on the life of Richard Wurmbrand in the Voices of the Martyrs. Wurmbrand was imprisoned and severely tortured for many years for his faith in Communist Romania during the 80’s. Usually when you read about him it is always in the context of him addressing the plight of the persecuted church–which is why I was struck by his concern for an Australian waitress as the excerpt highlights below:

“Once in a restaurant in Australia, Richard Wurmbrand and his wife Sabina were attended by a young waitress who was very beautiful. Surely many men had made suggestive remarks to her. As she was taking their order, Richard asked her, “Have you ever wondered why God made you so beautiful?” Richard’s question may have opened a door for this woman. Someone had seen her from a different perspective, recognizing and valuing her immortal soul.” (Voice of the Martyrs Feb. ’12, p. 2)

I was struck by how a question can be so powerful and impacting when it is asked from a perspective that is hardly, if ever, considered. Words are powerful tools. Rephrasing, rewording and recasting our questions can disarm and open doors for dialogue.