Opening the door of the nursery at church, I realized two ladies were having a snide conversation about me. Whoa! Slow and quietly closing the door, what do I do now? Should I confront them, walk out into the hall and act like I had heard nothing, or stay in the nursery and wait out the conversation?
Option 1) Confront: I do not like confrontations, but when I am mad, I feel the need to state my case. In doing this, things would be said, feelings hurt, and relationships could be changed beyond repair.
Option 2) Walk into the hall: Say good morning and walk on by. Make them wonder if I had heard and maybe rethink what they had said? Who knows?
Option 3) Stay in the nursery: Now, this might seem like a chicken’s way out, but truth be told, I would find this the hardest, as it would go against everything I had in me to retaliate. But, let’s be real, their opinion of me is not my business.
I prayed quickly, and a decision was made.
I chose option 3. I represent Jesus.
“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20
We make decisions like this almost daily. Whether it would be with our closest family, friends, or an unknown stranger, we are aware we cannot control other people, and how they treat us, we can only control ourselves and how we treat and love others. We are called to represent Jesus. We are His ambassadors, and the way we live could determine eternity for someone. If all they see is a Christian that does not represent Jesus, they do not see the love of Christ. How we react or speak over a situation is under a microscope, now more than ever.
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:14
At the end of service that Sunday, I smiled at both ladies I told them to have a good day, and I meant it. I have never mentioned that I had overheard what was said.
“Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:1-2
I continue to ask myself daily. Do I represent Jesus well? Do I show love, kindness, and grace to all? No, I am a work in progress, and I fail every day to represent Him. I ask for forgiveness, and He, who is so loving, extends me grace. So, I get up again and try my best.
I leave you with one question. Do you represent Jesus?
I pray you and I choose to represent Christ in all aspects of our lives.
“As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” Ephesians 4:1
Missy Burks
Lean into Jesus Ministries
#missyburksblogs