Did they get you to trade your heroes for ghosts? Hot ashes for trees? Hot air for a cool breeze? Cold comfort for change? Did you exchange a walk on part in the war for a leading role in a cage?
~ Pink Floyd
Jesus made a big deal out of meeting people where they are at. And he was rather adamant that this included meeting physical needs.
We may or may not run into people with physical hunger every day, but unless you talk to absolutely no one, we certainly run into people with emotional hunger. Often this is a result of poor choices in the past.
You might be surprised how people respond when you ask them to reveal themselves, and in my experience it’s not uncommon for them to be surprised that someone asked them a “deep” question. The truth is that when you ask (and really listen) it’s a sign of caring.
Asking, “What keeps you down?” not only gives you insight into an issue, but their answer also suggests what they see as a way out and, consequently, their worldview.