LISTEN ONLINE“What do you do?” As an autistic ADHD-er, Naomi’s mind raced. How to answer? Talk passionately for ten minutes about researching disability and the church? Or was this just a polite question that people ask when they don’t really want to know the answer? It was a Christian retreat, so Naomi took the risk and shared freely—but then was taken aside by another Christian and accused of being selfish for talking too long. The result? Deep sadness, prompting Naomi’s abrupt and early departure from the retreat.
Naomi pondered whether the disciple Peter had ADHD and found comfort in his relationship with Jesus. Easily distractible and impulsive, Peter was prone to blurting things out honestly, which got him into trouble at times. When Jesus talked about His impending death, Peter rebuked Him, “Never, Lord!” (Matthew 16:22). So, in turn, Jesus rebuked him, “Get behind me Satan!” (v. 23).
Yet when Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do you say I am?” (v. 15), Peter’s blunt honesty was prophetic and bold, and he declared, “You are the Messiah” (v. 16). Despite Peter’s blunders here and elsewhere, Jesus calls him to lead and blesses him: “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven” (v. 19).
If you struggle with saying the wrong thing, or if you are neurodiverse and feel judged by others, be comforted: Jesus knows our gifts and potential. God calls and blesses us today.