Scriptural Reference:
"But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to
anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, "
1 Peter 3:15

"Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God"
2 Timothy 1:8

"And he [Jesus] said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation."
Mark 16:15

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek."
Romans 1:16

Reflection:
I take a moment to reflect on an elderly woman at a Presbyterian Church who admitted to being too afraid of what people would say if she shared her faith. She felt that her family and friends feelings were far more important than her chance to share the most important message of hope and grace. The message of Salvation through Jesus the Christ. How will she feel when so many are lost to the depths of Hell because she didn't want them getting upset with her? Where is her conviction? How strong is her faith in Christ? Can an inactive faith really bring about changes in others?

The Bible, with focus on the New Testament, has many beautiful verses that encourage us to live an active faith. One that not only acts with conviction, but also speaks with the authority of the Bible. We are told that we should always be ready to defend our faith with any who would challenge it (1 Peter 3:15). Giving voice to the very substance of our salvation. That there should be no shame in sharing the Gospel with others (2 Timothy 1:8). For, like Paul, we should be emboldened by the Holy Spirit to never stop seeking ways to mention our faith to others. Jesus Himself has given us an instruction and a mandate to “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation." (Mark 16:15). For we are not given a spirit of meekness but a spirit of a lion. Courageous in the face of fear and intimidation.

Now who can stand and say and even boast the words "I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek." (Romans 1:16)? Who is ready to hold fast to the truth of their salvation? Keeping in mind the warning made by Jesus the Christ "But whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father who is in Heaven" (Matthew 10:33). It will not be enough to walk away from a confrontation with those who will oppose you. For by walking away are you not also denying Jesus and the Gospel message of Gods Grace? What excuse can you make when judged for everything that you did and yes even the things you left undid.

We will all be called to judgment before the mighty throne of God. Both those who are saved and those who are lost. We each will be called to explain what we did with pour lives. For those who are saved they will be able to rely on the saving grace of Jesus the Christ. Who will witness for us to our Father. And yet how shallow we may feel when we are made to remember the words we left unsaid. The compassion of sharing the gift of grace with those we claimed to love. Where will our hearts and eyes be focused on that eventful day? Will they be looking into glory or looking back on things left undone and souls sadly lost?


Prayer:

Lord Jesus the Christ,
I pray to have the strength,
To live the Gospel message,
Share the Gospel message,
And bring others to Salvation.

I pray these things,
In the power of your name,

Amen