Jesus words in Acts 1:8 make a clear point in fact and command, you shall be my witnesses. The Greek word (lambanō, läm-bä’-nō) means to “to take what is one’s own, to take to one’s self, to make one’s own”.
There is a slight distinction between being an evangelist and being a witness. Many Episcopalians, the denomination wherein I have chosen to mingle most, struggle with the notion of the E-word (evangelism) but the command still rings out through the heavens be my witnesses. In my opinion to deny being such is an unhealthy choice for oneself, the Church, your congregation and your social circles. Your faith story is your own. It is your legacy, past and future. It’s made up of the highs and lows. Ignoring these moments obscures the glory of God and weakens your resolve and wisdom when faced by future woes and success.
When I was between the ages of 7-32, I participated heavily in a ministry called FaithALIVE. One of the simple exercises was to chart out your spiritual highs and lows on a time chart. It could be from the last month or your lifetime. People were encouraged to include any type of event and those seasons in life which felt dark as well as those filled with hope, power and vitality. The exercise provided a marvelous opportunity for the small group members to share honestly and build more meaningful friendships. Even among long-time members stories were shared that people had never heard. Each story helped knit the group closer and gave members hope through the grace, power and interventions of God. I’m convinced that tour faith story is the principal means by which Gods grace and the Holy Spirit will work in your soul and through you to encourage and build up others.
The discipline begins by listening. To yourself, God and to others. Take to heart these words in 1Peter 3:15, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,” (emphasis mine).
So what’s your faith story? Post your story below or tell your close friends and encourage one another with winsome sincerity and gentleness of heart.
Categories: Spiritual Vitality
Tags: Church Vitality, episcopal, Evangelism, faithalive, legacy, witness
