Goldfish living

As I was driving home the other night from work (around quarter to ten) I was merging on to a new dual carriageway, when a guy in a white van decided to undertake me and then cut me up when swerving out to overtake the car in front of me. I had managed to pick up some speed and eventually overtook this guy who then seemed to think that I was interested in some sort of race/duel on the road. So he then overtook me again and cut me up once more. I was fuming. On the back of his van I couldn’t help but notice he had an advertisement of what I am assuming is his own company or perhaps a company he works for. (For now we will call this guy Joe Bloggs). “JOE BLOGGS – PAINTER AND DECORATOR. NO JOB TOO SMALL”. Etc etc.

At this point I thought to myself, “well pal, that’s one less potential customer you’ll have. If I’m in need of a painter and decorator (no matter how small the job) I don’t think I will be calling upon your services.” I was so livid at this guy’s careless driving which was ridiculous to say the least and adamant that his business wouldn’t be one I would be calling on.

Anyway, I quickly moved on and decided to forget about it. However, today I was reminded of this guys actions and how as a Christian, I at times have been no better. I thought to myself, that’s what people must think about me in the times where my actions are completely non-Christian. Now, I don’t exactly have a big bill-board sign attached to my chest saying ‘I AM A CHRISTIAN’, but most people who know me are aware of the fact that I am one!

It’s amazing how we accuse in others, what we excuse in ourselves.

Christianity is like living life in a goldfish bowl, constantly watched. Our actions, the things we say are more observed and criticised or opinionated more than we know. I’m not exactly the most outgoing evangelist, would find it very difficult just to say outright to someone ‘Jesus loves you’. But, I hope and pray that my actions; the things I do, say, and think will be enough to show others God’s grace and goodness.

The deeds you do may be the only sermon some people will ever hear.

Be mindful of your actions, people are watching. Don’t give anyone an excuse to say ‘If that’s what Christianity is then I want nothing to do with it’. Take Paul’s advice to Timothy when he says “But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith.” 1 Timothy 6:11-12

Advertisement