When Jesus appeared to His followers after the resurrection, He greeted them, saying, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you” (John 20:21). Today, as followers of Christ, we have also been commissioned to share the good news of the gospel. This month’s magazine explores many of the ways that we can be His light in the world.
People appreciate it when we are interested in them personally, and a friendly smile is a good start to almost any conversation. Listening is often the first step in showing God’s love. When we listen attentively to someone, we can usually find some common ground that will open the way to a deeper conversation. Sharing our faith doesn’t have to be complicated. Few people want to hear a speech laden with doctrine, yet people often appreciate hearing about personal experiences or some simple words of hope and faith. The time we spend with someone is never wasted or worthless.
“Does anyone really care about me?” It may surprise us to know how many people struggle with this question looming persistently in the back of their minds. And we have the answer. “Yes! God cares and He knows you personally. He knows your very essence, all of your thoughts and concerns. Jesus wants to be a part of your life.”
As the world becomes more impersonal, our little flame of faith shines even brighter. Don’t let it flicker out! Let’s not minimize God’s Spirit within us. If we take the first step, even if we feel shy, the Holy Spirit will speak through us to bring hope and light into someone’s life. As we lift up Jesus, He will draw people to Himself.
“Christ has no body now on earth but yours, no hands but yours, no feet but yours; yours are the eyes through which Christ’s compassion looks out on the world.” 1 The only love of God that many people will see is the love they see in us. It may surprise you to see the effect that a word of kindness and faith and a look of sympathy can have on someone’s soul. If we see each person as one who needs Jesus, our Savior, God’s love will flow through us.
People know enough hell, let’s show them a little bit more heaven!
- Often attributed to St. Teresa of Avila ↑