Many years ago, when I first became a Christian, the term, 'Jesus Freak' was common place.
It bothered me, as a 'babe in Christ', to be referred to, or thought of as a 'Jesus Freak'.
Therefore I maintained a 'private walk', unless around other Christians.
If discovered, by non Christians, I became very defensive.
I always felt the need to explain 'myself' rather than 'His' Love.
There were , I am ashamed to admit, opportunities to witness that passed by, because I was afraid of the reaction......especially when it was someone I knew well.
Family was/is the hardest.
I am looked upon as, 'the misfit', by some members of my family.
Whilst stating that I 'always find a way,' they seem blinded to God as being my source, despite countless attempts, over the years, to explain.
I have had it said to me that, "Religion is the opium of the people," and more recently was accused of being, "addicted to visions."
I live for my vision!
What bothers me today, are those who have none.
Therefore I now try to witness in whatever way God provides.
In my workplace there are mixed reactions to my Faith, and who The Lord is creating in me.
I work in a school, and although 'God is no longer allowed in schools' He is ever present, and , I hope , clearly visible in my classroom.
Our company policy, for the long Summer Break, is to lay us off and rehire in the Fall.
Therefore, although the break is well earned, finances are always stretched thin during the summer months.
During a discussion about finding temporary work, a colleague publicly stated to me, "I know what you could do.You would be really good at waving a billboard........you're always smiling at everyone."
It was said, I believe, as a light hearted joke, but not without some hint of facetiousness.
A few years ago I would have taken offense, but God provided me with a wonderful response:
"That's a really good idea, and it would say, 'Jesus Loves me!'"
Another colleague has a different perspective.
In a nutshell ....she liked the fact that I am nearly always smiling..... and wanted something to smile about herself.
She said, "I dont think I am good enough to be a Christian, go to church, and all that."
The 'He in me' responded, "Oh,( my friend,) Jesus did'nt come for the perfect. He came for lifes misfits, people like you and me. He does'nt care where you came from, how you dress, or what you have done.......He just loves you as you are."
I found myself quoting 1 John:20.
'For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.'
She commented,"heavy duty." then wept.
A few weeks later she accepted the Lord.
I am, in myself, fairly shy and somewhat timid.
However, 'in Him,' I am confident and happy to be bold.
These days I drive with my window down, singing along to Christian music, with one hand outside to 'catch the wind' and raise to heaven whenever The Spirit moves me.
I am earning the title,'Jesus Freak', and loving it.
I am also daily understanding more of the 'Saving Grace' to being a misfit in this world,
and .... the value of a little salt.
Read more articles by Elizabeth Hexberg  or search for articles on the same topic or others.
Read NEWEST ARTICLES by Christian authors
Read MOST READ ARTICLES by Christian authors
Read our most read and highly acclaimed CHALLENGE CONTEST ARTICLES
JOIN US at FaithWriters for Free. Grow as a Writer and Spread the Gospel.
If you died today, are you absolutely certain that you would go to heaven? You can be! TRUST JESUS NOW
The opinions expressed by authors do not necessarily reflect the opinion of FaithWriters.com.
|
