Speak of the Lord

We had our own little United Nations. China, Taiwan, India, Nepal, Ivory Coast, Korea and widely scattered States. Religions of the world were reflected and openly discussed. I was able to discuss Christianity with a Muslim, Hindus, Bhuddists and one Wiccan. I was able to discuss doctrinal differences with Catholics, Methodists, Lutherans, Disciples of Christ, Episcopalians and a wide variety of Baptists.

Why? Because living my beliefs were sufficiently important enough to me to discuss them. As were theirs.

Too often we are reluctant to speak to others about our beliefs. Or, when we do, we must defend or argue about them. This is not a debate, a contest or even a time to evangelize and convince. It is a time to open dialogue and plant seeds.

The gospels and Acts are filled with such opportunities. Nicodemus came to Jesus specifically to discuss religion. It was the most important thing in his life. People went to hear John the Baptist, he didn't go to them.

Why can't we draw people today to hear the word of the Lord?

How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? (Romans 10:14 KJV)

We enjoy fellowship with like-minded believers, meeting together to hear His word, expecting others to join us. How can they, except they be invited. So, who do we invite? Strangers, most often. Why not family and friends? Why not co-workers?

We keep our professional lives so separate from our religious life. Christ didn't. Our Pastors don't. Why should we be ashamed, or afraid, to speak of our love of God to those around us. A simple statement paraphrasing Psalms 118:24: Isn't this a wonderful day the Lord has made?

I remember waiting for tests in the hospital when someone came into the room. "Good morning," she said. I returned the greeting, adding, "Truly, this is the day the Lord has made!" She asked if I were a Christian and I said, "Yes." That opened an opportunity to discuss the Lord.

Don't look for such opportunities, create them. Don't wait for people to come to church, invite them. Don't wait for a special occasion, for this truly, is the day the Lord has given you to do so.