“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8
Class was over and a young woman from China lingered after others had left. It was early in the semester and I had just described the difference between relating with others by contract as opposed to connecting through covenant. A key element of covenant — in biblical perspective — is that people call upon God to bless the relationship, such as between David and Jonathan or Moses and the people of Israel.
Hearing these ideas for the first time, the Chinese student seemed emotionally stirred. God not only exists, but relates personally to us as humans? Her upbringing denied God’s existence and promoted that luck and hard work gave life meaning. She said she would look into these matters more as she continued her studies.
When foreigners arrive in our country we have special opportunities to shape their understanding of God. Well-worn beliefs and experiences we take for granted may cut to the heart for newcomers with life and urgency. And doing so does not require a passport or airplane ticket to Samaria or to the ends of the earth; it can happen in our own backyard, our Jerusalem.
Where do you interact with people every day who don’t know God personally? Are you being faithful to live an authentic Christian life so they may see it for themselves? Sometimes the simplest testimony is the one we don’t plan.
Thank You God for bringing people across my path who don’t know You. Help me be a gracious and winsome witness of Your love and good in my life so they may be drawn to You. Amen.
Take Action
Think of one or two people you know who are new to where you live and consider how a talk with them may show them your understanding about God.
Have you tried being an online missionary? There are no vaccines or plane tickets needed. You can have spiritual conversations with people from around the world. It’s confidential, anonymous, and a great way to gain confidence in sharing your faith.
