Romans 1:16 “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.”
A Zimbabwean young man wrote the following before he was martyred: “I’m part of the fellowship of the unashamed. I have the Holy Spirit’s power. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made – I’m a disciple of his. I won’t look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still… I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the enemy, pander at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity… I am a disciple of Jesus. I must go till he comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till he stops me. And, when he comes for his own, he will have no problem recognising me… my banner will be clear!”
I support Ipswich Town FC and I’m not ashamed. I’m a U2 fan and I’m not ashamed. I wear a ridiculous mankini when I go cycling and I’m not ashamed (well, maybe a little!). So why is it that when a friend or a colleague gives me an ideal opening to talk about Jesus, I suddenly get moist palms and my voice goes a little higher?! Seriously, what is our problem? What do we have to be ashamed about?
Jesus has completely transformed my life. My wretched past has been dealt with, I’ve got purpose in the present, and my future is absolutely guaranteed. I don’t need to feel guilty anymore. Instead I feel hopeful, joyful, peaceful (some days more than others, admittedly). I’m a child of the King, for goodness’ sake! So let’s shout it from the rooftops – or probably, more effectively – live authentically, love wholeheartedly, pray for opportunities, and then seize them boldly when they come.
Lord, may my banner be clear today. Amen!
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