By Pat
A short time ago, a friend and I were talking about what we'd do if we knew the return of Jesus was imminent. Would we be different? Live differently? I couldn't really think of anything major that I would change about my lifestyle, except for one thing. I told my friend I would desperately witness in an attempt to reach my family and friends who are not saved, to warn them that the end is near, in hopes that their salvation was secured. And as soon as the words left my lips...BAM! Convicted! Shouldn't I already be doing that?
I have always felt funny about being too pushy about what I know to be the truth. I have a fear of wondering what people think of me, of thinking I am strange; a Jesus freak. I worry that rather than nudge people towards Jesus, my manner and words might instead push them away. It happens...We've all heard stories about people who have been turned off by over-zealous Christians. But didn't Jesus command us to "go and make disciples of all nations?" And in order to do that, shouldn't I be asking God to help me to overcome my inhibitions and do what I need to do in order to make sure everyone I encounter knows exactly who Jesus is?
One of my favorite Bible heroes is John the Baptist. He was fearless, unique, forward and obedient. He knew he was here to point people to Jesus. He never proclaimed to be great, but instead told everyone about the coming of the great Savior, Jesus. "I am the voice of one calling in the desert, 'Make straight the way for the Lord.' " (Mark 1:3) He didn't care to whom, where, when or how the message was delivered. He only knew he had a job to do, as do we, and he did it!
I want to be more like John. I want to overcome my fear of being avoided, or thought of as weird. I want to witness fearlessly, tirelessly and diligently. I want everyone to know my Lord and be saved. I want to be bold, not timid. I want the Holy Spirit to move in me in such a way that Jesus is made real and glorified in my every word. I want to be a Jesus freak! And with God's help, I can.
"I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." (Luke 7:28)
Pat is a good friend who is passionate about her faith and her family. She works from home supporting a family business, and loves to read, write and garden when she can, and spends every spare moment with her grandkids.