We have been called to execute on the great commission. As disciples of Jesus, we are expected to go and make disciples of all nations. Bring all to Jesus, share the gospel wherever we can and whenever we can.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:19-20
The obvious question that follows is, who would you say Jesus is? There are many smart ways of answering this. It is important for us as evangelists to know how to respond to this. In Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis does a great job explaining. Fulton Sheen does the same through the Life of Christ.
‘He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”
Matthew 16:15
I think it is not just what you say. It is what you do not say that matters when you are trying to make an impact. It is your non-verbal cues, your priorities, treatment of others, choices and your demeanor.
We as Christians, need to make it a priority to spread the gospel not just by words. Non-believers should be curious about the inward peace we project. They should wonder why storms do not toss us around.
Not too long ago, I hit a rough patch on almost all fronts, personal, professional and health. One of my coworkers said, “I am not sure how you are surviving all this, I would crumble”. I was crumbling on the inside but would find solace in prayer. I waited for Him to fix it all. But what struck me was that she could not see it. Not because I hide it well, but because while in the storm, I looked up to Jesus every time I felt that I was sinking. Maybe she caught me at a time when I was looking up at Him.
‘And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased.’
Matthew 14:31-32
In case you are curious about the storm, it ended better than it started. I was good as new with a heart that loves and trusts Him. When we trust and wait, we acknowledge that the almighty is at work. He has our best interest and will give us what we need and not what we deserve. As sinners we deserve the worst. But in His infinite kindness, He shows us mercy and grace. His plans for us are good.
‘For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’
Jeremiah 29:11
Here is the bottom line. We are being watched by children, non-believers and believers alike. Try to remember how good God is to you and let it shine through. Grab hold of Jesus and let Him stay in your heart. Be satisfied in knowing that He is never going to abandon you and you will exude peace, joy and courage.
‘Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”’
Joshua 1:9
You have the eternal gift of peace and joy through Jesus, now it is up to you to let it sink in and transform your demeanor. Trust Him!
‘Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.’
John 14:27
Dear Jesus,
Please grant me the goodness to radiate the mercies and grace You shower upon me. Not just inner gratitude but expression of faith through my being, walk, talk, eating, working. Never ceasing to shine the light that shines inside of me through You. May my very being bring You glory. Amen.