“There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him.” John 1:6-7
Perhaps the one aspect of our Christian faith that I dislike most is to go and evangelize to the world around us of Christ. It is hard because we fear rejection and we know people don’t want to hear it. I find it absolutely interesting that people would rather expose themselves and speak of their sex lives than speak of their faith or lack thereof. This world does not welcome people who are focused on proclaiming the message that is Christ Jesus.
Yet, the end of Matthew invites us to go out into the world and proclaim the message of Jesus Christ. Yet, how often do we do so? I spoke to two Mormon boys last month when I was in California visiting my parents. They spoke of stories of how people were mean, hurtful and downright inhuman in their reception of these Mormon boys. I personally reject the entire Mormon’s idea of Christ and Christianity but I admire those boys who are willing to commit two to three years of their lives going into the world to speak of their faith and overcoming these harsh treatments. Sadly, a lot of the horrendous treatment the received came from self-proclaimed Christians.
I am convinced that we are called to do more than just spend a couple years of proclaiming God but a whole lifetime of active proclamation through words, deeds and actions. The question that is before is how are we testifying to the Gospel of Christ? Are we living a life that when people see us, they know the Light of Christ burn in our hearts? If they don’t, why? Would people at our church, if they saw you elsewhere recognize you as a fellow believer?
I ask of you to take this time to be a living John the Baptist for those who need to learn about Christ. Be bold and be courageous in faith and allow that boldness and courage to proclaim who is the ruler of your heart. Speak of Christ when we have the opportunity and live out Christ’s life here on earth when we can’t speak of Christ. Let the world see what John the Baptist may have looked like when they see you.
Prayer: Dear Lord, give us faith and make us bold to live out your Gospel! Amen.
