No Shame

I have to admit, I’m not the best at being open and honest about being a Christian when I’m with people from back home. At AU, Chi Alpha serves as a flashing beacon to all about where your allegiance and affiliation lies. But back home that anchor doesn’t exist.  People don’t necessarily know me as a dedicated Christian, as it wasn’t the case back in high school. And while I’m going back to AU in just over two weeks, that is no excuse for not trying to impact people’s lives now nor preparing for later.

Regardless of what environment we find ourselves in, we can’t be ashamed for what believe in. Just as many of us feel passionately about films, books, music, politics, and want to share our thoughts and beliefs with those around us, should we not add Christ to that list? I certainly struggle with this. It invites questioning and even derision, the former which I worry I won’t give the perfectly correct answer, and the latter just plain hurts. But the fact of the matter is that if we live in a way that precipitates those questions, then we know we are creating an impact on those around us, and one that can lead to some potentially vital conversations.

This brings me to my central thought I’ve been having of late. I cannot be ashamed of being a Christian. No p-p-p-p-p-p-p-peer pressure in our environments should make us less proud to call ourselves Christ followers.  We should know that the gospel can overcome all the external forces trying to push us into different shapes:

^“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” (romans 1:16 esv)

I need to challenge myself to not be afraid of labeling myself. I should want people to know my set of beliefs through my actions and through my convictions. A challenge not to shy away from any questions, and not to give evasive answers when asked. Whatever situation I find myself in, I should feel completely okay speaking truthfully and openly.

Let’s follow Paul’s example, and not be ashamed of the gospel, no matter if we are at home, at AU, or anywhere abroad. We can impact whatever community we are a part of. Don't be afraid to answer the tough questions. And more importantly, don't be afraid of inviting the tough questions.