Here I Am Lord!

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“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send?       

Who will go for us?” “Here I am,” I said; “send me!” 

Isaiah 6:8

 

Certainly, we all have our own likes and dislikes, beliefs, perspectives and ways of doing things…All of us. And we are entitled to that freedom. The truth is, we are all on this train, this journey called life together, with people from every possible persuasion alongside us. To some, faith is vitally important; yet, to others, not so much. Some may be adverse to religion or faith practice of any kind, choosing to not believe in God at all.

 

In the course of our lives, we sometimes do encounter people who may see things very differently-even radically different– than we do. And it’s ok. We are all entitled to believe what we want. One such example is when a believing Christian and an Atheist or Agnostic meet. Though it may seem like an uncomfortable, overwhelming challenge at times for many Christians, it is in many ways like any other interaction. It is a great opportunity to ever so gently engage in conversation and share your faith. Though you may not agree with them at all, nor they with you, active listening and mutual respect are key. There is no reason to feel intimidated, as you need to remember that we (all of humanity) are, whether we recognize and acknowledge it or not, all children of God, Our Creator.

 

Through the power of the Holy Spirit, the gift of faith in God is available to all people, whether they accept it or not, regardless of their beliefs—even Atheists and Agnostics. Make no doubt about it—faith is a blessed gift that not everyone experiences in their lifetime, most often due to the choices they make. Faith in God really is all about Love—always is, always has been–about the Love He holds for all of humanity. What a tremendous opportunity and privilege we have to gently share the unconditional Love of God in a personal way with others, especially when we encounter people who have not yet personally experienced Him!

 

                                                “Do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say.                                          

You will be given at that moment what you are to say…”

Matthew 10:19

Some people have never heard about God in a way they can seek Him out, believe and/or trust in Him. Sadly, they have never felt or experienced the unconditional Love that God holds for each of us–specifically for them. Could it be that on occasion God would send such a person into your life to help them find Him? Of course—and why not?!? Perhaps we should not expect someone else to have that conversation with them for us, and embrace the challenge God has provided…

 

    To whomever I send you, you shall go;
whatever I command you, you shall speak.
⁸ Do not be afraid of them,
for I am with you to deliver you.”’

Jeremiah 1:7-8

Here I am, Lord…

Truth be told, I don’t actually believe Atheism exists. Rather, I believe Atheists are really Agnostics who have not yet discovered the presence and Love of God in their own lives. For God’s Love is there for all of us—not just people who go to church. Though church going may be a sign of strong faith that is not always the case. People go to church for many reasons—but it is not a requirement for having a relationship with God. We cannot judge others—especially by whether or not they attend church. However, Church is, for many Christians, an important vehicle to find God, build a relationship with Him, participate in community prayer, worship, and fellowship with others who believe, and strive to serve Him, as well.

 

We are all sinners, but the best way to share ones faith is by listening and example, and sharing the Love of God. If you live a careless, selfish, hypocritical life, you will not be able to share God authentically with others. They will not believe you, or trust that what you say is true. We need to try to be consistent in both word and deed, and also not be intimidated by others who do not believe as we do. Otherwise, we are simply ‘preaching to the choir.’ For when you understand that we are all in this together, your insecurities and fear of rejection will fade, and you are far more able to share God with others as you step out of your comfort zone.

 

Another person’s eternal life may depend on your willingness to share God with them. So go on…Take a leap of faith, and share the reason for your hope with those who don’t believe as you do. Without judging them, you may just be the only lifeline they have to eternal life!

 

“Always be ready to give an explanation  to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope,

 but do it with gentleness and reverence, keeping your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who defame your good conduct in Christ may themselves be put to shame.”

I Peter 3:15-16

 

Here I am Lord…Please send me!

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© Copyright 2021   |   Adele M. Gill

~ About the Author ~

Adele M. Gill is a certified Chaplain, and a graduate of the St. James College Seminary. She is a recipient of the 2021 Firebird Book Award for her life-changing book, ‘How to Go from Broken to Blest.’ Her other inspirational books include: ‘Classic Reflections,’ ‘Patient Persistence,’ ‘7 Pathways to Hope,’ and ‘From Broken to Blest: Embracing the Healing that Awaits You.’