When is the right time to turn around? Last night as I walked, a loud warning bark from a dog stopped me in my tracks. Was the dog inside or outside its fence? I had to make my decision in an instant. Concluding the dog was inside its fence, I traveled on.
Jesus set the itinerary for his followers: “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth.” Paul and Barnabas were continuing the work Jesus had begun. Luke shares the developing pattern of ministry for these men of God. They started preaching in the synagogue. Many believed. Opposition arose. Paul and Barnabas spoke boldly. God attended their words with signs and wonders. Opponents threatened their lives. They continued to preach as they moved to the next city.
Some years ago we sent out invitations to Vacation Bible School. Upon receiving our brochure, a local atheist wrote me a scathing email about indoctrinating children. I went on the offensive. I typed a lengthy point by point response to his angry letter. Then just before I hit send, I remembered he ended his letter by saying, “A pastor like you would never meet with a person like me.” I erased my letter and sent a shorter one asking him to meet me. We met often through the years. Once he attended a birthday party with my staff. He commented on how wonderful the people at Tallowood are. I told him the good news every time he would listen. Our friendship grew stronger through the years.
If we obey Christ, we will encounter opposition, sooner or later. God is with us. We have nothing to fear as we share the good news with others. We must always be ready to give an answer to those who ask about our hope. Is anybody asking? Talk about Jesus to people. The good news is too good not to share. Our love for our neighbors authenticates God’s love for the whole world.
