When I looked in the mirror not long ago, I saw what many see in today’s world as a Christian. Maybe a little more, probably a little less. A man who loves God, believes that Jesus died on the cross for my sins, goes to church on weekends and listens to Christian music. Sounds good right?
I never felt too uncomfortable talking about my faith to others, always kind of enjoyed it but didn’t necessarily seek it. It wasn’t until one day at work that it became very apparent of a crucial piece missing in my faith. A coworker with tear filled eyes quickly walked past me with sadness covering her face. I quickly stopped what I was doing and went up to her and tried to console her. Within seconds she opened up to me about her life and issues she was having. God tugged on my heart at the moment to bring Him into the conversation and so I did. We then shared a great conversation regarding God and our Faith and how it can and has helped us both so much in the past. It wasn’t till ending that she said something to me that truly changed my life. “I never knew you were a Christian…”
This at first made little impact on me as I walked away feeling proud that I put a smile on this woman’s face. Pride quickly became shame as I was soon trying to hold back tears. What have I been doing all these years? Who do people think I am? Worst of all, how would they judge what a Christian is by looking at my life? Am I just a fan of Jesus? Am I one of those among many in the crowds wanting to see miracles yet when he says to take up our cross I turn away?
Matthew 7:22-23 writes:“Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you.”
The realization of what we are called to do has since become more and more a reality. Being a Christian is living LIKE Christ, not idolizing him as many proclaimed believers do. We need to give up everything to take up our crosses daily and follow him. The bible is the living word and each of those words chosen carefully. So when something is repeated within it, know that it’s important! Several times it’s written that we are to deny ourselves. That if we are to proclaim the gospel we are to die to ourselves. God calls for complete renovation in your life. He wants to be a part of everything that you do and in that, His love and His will for you will show in you and onto others! Share the gospel by living the gospel because you may be the only Jesus someone ever meets.
