(Second in a series on Evangelism)
I rant, occasionally. I can go on a bit (confession is good for the soul), especially on matters of faith. It might come across as if I don’t have the confidence of my convictions about God and so I repeat myself, louder each time, to shore up my own flagging beliefs. But that’s not it.
It’s more like, I’m passionate about what I believe and so I try like crazy to impart, hold forth, and otherwise urge my passion onto the next guy so that he gets what I so much want him to always know and never doubt again—I’m ranting, aren’t I? But, on the good side of my equation, I’m aware that God is the one who does the true urging; not I. And the inspiring. Although sometimes, in the eagerness of the moment, I act like it’s my job. This is what I’m confessing.
I’m trying to get better at this evangelism stuff, and reproving my shortfalls is helpful to those ends. I mean, really, what good comes of being overanxious in my conversations (that become monologues) about Jesus with others? I read recently from the disciple Peter, who, for good reason, starts an encouragement with, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord…” (1Pet 3:15). I do! I do! That’s why I get so zealous when articulating that reverence, for cryin’ out loud! (Oh my.)
How, then, in the rhythms of the moment—I was going to say “in the demands of the right now,” but caught myself—How, then, to share the Good News peacefully, invitingly, winsomely even? This is what I’m after, God knows. This is why, on this fine morning, I am led to take in the rest of 1st Peter 3:15, where it says “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” Good reading, the Apostle Peter. Much to learn and make use of.
Thank you, God, for your patience with me while I’m learning. And yours too, friend, and friends to come. I’m trying like crazy to get better at sharing the Gospel. I’m practicing like there’s no tomorrow. And I do believe I’m progressing.
I hope this encourages you to persevere in sharing the Good News in a good way today.
Kevin Murray
© 2024 All rights reserved