A couple of days ago I was helping a coworker (Marty) tile his house. Why he thought I would be of any help I don’t know but there I was. On one of our many breaks that morning I was talking with another coworker (Tony), who was doing yard work for Marty that day, about an upcoming deep sea fishing trip we’re going on in about a month. Tony, a three-year veteran of this annual trip, was informing me of all the important details about our approaching voyage like the daily gambling pool, the alcohol involved and the typical crude “male humor”. Within a few minuets of our conversation Tony must have remembered that I was a Christian because he began to act as though I would have a problem with the events that were to take place. I assured him that I would not spoil the fun but that’s not the point for this entry.
My first point is, Tony and I haven’t ever had a conversation about my faith so I can only assume that he knew of my relationship with Christ through word of mouth or by my actions. Either way it made me feel good. I either made a good impression on someone or said something in passing that made him think I was a Christian. And I’m proud of that.
As Paul Harvey would say, “Here’s the rest of the story”. A couple days latter at the fire station I said something in a conversation with Marty that disturbed him. What I said isn’t important but the effect it had on him was. Marty stopped mid conversation and called me out. Something to the effect of, I’m not allowed to say stuff like that... I thought you were a Christian... Marty was right. I apologized to him and made a commitment to work on that.
And for my other point. That conversation made me think. It’s not fair to those that know of my faith to see two sides of me. I know I’m not perfect and I defiantly know that I will fail at times. But it is my responsibility to represent God and His love for me the best I can, admitting when I’m wrong and being open and honest to non-believers. Someone once told me that I might be the only Christian that those I encounter in life may know. So, remember who and what you represent.
Please feel free to comment and share you own experiences with this.
The husband of a friend of mine has always been kind enough to point out when our conversations had strayed into gossip. It was always particularly embarassing because he doesn't profess to being a Christian, refuses to go to church, but is the gentlest, kindest guy you'll meet. He can talk all day about anyone and never gossip.
ReplyDeleteYou're right, we need to remember who and what we represent.
Very true- your story exemplifies a good point. I especially like the part "I might be the only Christian that those I encounter in life may know" it really makes you think about what you project to the world.
ReplyDeleteKevin, I am very proud of you! You have grown into quite a wonderful man, husband and father. I think you are a true Christian because you have a personal relationship with God and it shows in your everyday behavior. Keep up the good work! Love you, Aunt Genise
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