The other day I listened while a man told the reason 
why his friend could not join a group that was gathering to share a meal. The dialogue went something like this:
“John was here, but got an urgent call from his wife that their dog had gotten out of the yard. He left as quickly as he could, to get home to help search for the lost dog.”
To which, another gentleman in the group said, “Do you think we should go and help, after-all Mary is home bound and cannot help him run around the neighborhood?”
The first man said, “That would really help. I’m sure with 6 of us looking we would have a great chance of finding the dog.”
They all agreed to go immediately. As they left I heard one guy say, “That dog means so much to Mary…”
I don’t know the end of the story, but for my own ease of mind, I want the dog to be found and I want Mary to be happy and not anxious. Wouldn’t you?
The men really had a heart for the lost dog, and even more so for the family that was distressed over the lost pet.
Here’s what struck my heart and challenged me:
Those men were happy to give up their meal together to look for a lost dog.
Am I willing to give up anything to help my “lost” neighbor? (Someone who does not follow Jesus as their Lord and Savior, according to God’s Word, is lost: Luke 19:10.)
Do I think it’s urgent to go to them with God’s love and grace?
Am I willing to work with a team, to tell others? (Not just “my way, or no way”)
Do I feel the hurting of my friends who have loved ones who are not “safe and secure” in the arms of God?
Oftentimes I think we hesitate to reach out to those who do not know Jesus as Savior because we don’t know what will happen next, just like I have no idea if the dog was ever found. We have thoughts such as, “What will they think of me? Will they be angry? Will I offend? Will I totally turn them off to God all together? Will I say the right thing? Will I say the wrong thing?”
We don’t need to fear others. God knows all about them and He knows all about us. Jesus Himself encourages us to share His story in Luke 12… “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. I tell you, whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God.” God knows your heart, your desire to speak His story to those who need to hear. You are valuable to Him! GO share His goodness, His mercy and love, His salvation!!! Allow Him to acknowledge you before the angels in heaven!!
If I was your neighbor, I’d be happy that someone cared enough to have a conversation.
“…and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8b)
Christine Goss
Photo: Krista Bendorf