“But take heed to yourselves; for they will deliver you up to councils; and you will be beaten in synagogues; and you will stand before governors and kings for my sake, to bear testimony before them.”

Mark 13:9

 

I find it interesting that Jesus told his disciples of the opportunities that could evolve when they are put on trial for being his followers. This, Jesus tells them, is exactly when they could be introducing their adversaries to him..

It’s not likely, at least not for most who read this, that we’ll be on trial for our beliefs. And yet, we too may find ourselves judged in some way. We may be made fun of, disapproved of, or treated as weird. But there’s no need to let such encounters cause pain or embarrassment. They could be blessings in disguise. What better opportunity to share our faith with others?

Medical professionals and others who cared for me have sometimes tried to make me change my thinking when I chose to follow what Jesus taught. It was annoying to be thought of as delusional when I told them that Jesus tells me to love my enemy and that I needed to forgive. But because I knew my Bible and firmly believe in Christ’s message, I was able to defend my stance with confidence. The Holy Spirit gave me the words.

When I look back, such times of interaction with those who initially thought me strange have been precious. The best part is that you could make Jesus known to people who might otherwise not hear. Talking about what Jesus means to you can form the basis for rich sharing. In many cases they could be opportunities for relationship building.

What appears to be a negative confrontation could turn into a positive opportunity.  Once again, as he so often does, God can turn something that was bad into something good.

“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:11-12)

marja