Think about where you are today and the people who have influenced your faith journey up until this point. Someone has shared the message of Jesus with you, by word or deed. I’m sure there have been many people who have taken the initiative to share the gospel with you in some way. Maybe it was a parent or grandparent, a pastor, a friend, a co-worker, or even a stranger with an act of kindness. We meet people who deliberately share their faith; of course, there are probably many who may not be aware of their influence.
When we read God’s word, scripture gives us guidance and inspiration to accomplish the mission of sharing Jesus’ love with others. We can use the following scriptures to support and reinforce our responsibility:
Matthew 28:19-20 says: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Also, 1 Peter 3:15 says: "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect."
These verses remind us of our commission to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others. Even if we feel we’re not confident enough or bold enough, there are ways we can fulfill this calling in our daily lives, and we can do this regardless of our personality traits.
If you’re an introvert or someone who is not bold, outgoing, or talkative, you can start sharing Jesus Christ with others in a way that feels natural and comfortable. We might wonder, what we can do to make a difference and begin fulfilling the commission we are all called to. Sharing the message of Jesus doesn't always require grand gestures or bold speeches. As we grow, faith sharing becomes easier but to get started, the following are some unique ways to do this, even if we're not feeling particularly confident or bold.
We can pray for our neighborhood or community by walking and praying silently for the people and places we encounter. Even if we don't engage in direct conversations to spread the message of Jesus; our heartfelt prayers can lead the way for spiritual breakthroughs.
We can leave a lasting impression on others by performing random acts of kindness like posting an encouraging and inspirational word on social media, paying for someone's coffee in line behind us, or offering to help a stranger with a task. Receiving random acts of kindness is an uplifting experience and inspires the desire to share kindness with others.
If we’re creative we can use our talents to share the message of Jesus in unique ways. We may write poetry, create art, or compose music. Our creativity can be a way to reflect the themes of love and redemption with others.
Some people may feel they are outsiders, not part of the group or community. We can take the initiative to befriend them. Show care and hospitality to newcomers, or individuals from different cultural backgrounds. When we’re friendly and accepting it can reflect the inclusive love of Jesus and break down barriers.
We can take the time to listen and hear people's stories, their struggles, and their joys without judgment. When we have a compassionate ear, it can create opportunities to share the hope and comfort that we find in Jesus Christ.
When We receive uplifting information like books, articles, podcasts, or other resources that have positively impacted our faith journey, we can share this with friends, family, or acquaintances. Recommending resources that have inspired and encouraged us can help others in their walk with Christ.
Ultimately, we can communicate the message and love of Jesus through simple, everyday actions and interactions. It could be as small as offering a kind word to someone in need, showing empathy and compassion, and living out the principles of love and forgiveness in our relationships. So even without grand gestures and bold speeches, our life can reflect the message of Jesus through humility, service, and genuine care for others. Recognizing our everyday influence and taking small actions will help us get started with our commission, and with the Holy Spirit, we will gain the courage to share the hope of Jesus the way that others shared that hope with us.