Free for the taking

“Thanks for your help earlier, Christian.” The Home Depot employee waved to her co-worker as she waited on us to choose a color and pattern for our window coverings.

“I’m a Christian, too.” My 6-year-old daughter proclaimed her new identity with zeal. “I’m getting baptized soon!”

“That’s wonderful.” The woman smiled, not showing the least bit offense at the statement.

My spirit was instantly convicted. Because I’m a Christian, too. But I certainly didn’t profess my faith without abandon. I didn’t even think to mention it because, well, we were looking at window treatments, not talking theology.

But the truth is, it is always the right time and place to share the Good News of the gospel. Even on aisle ten in Home Depot.

Or anytime there is an opportunity.

In fact, in his letter to Peter, Paul instructs the young evangelist to “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.” (1 Peter 3:15)

This isn’t the first time she’s done so. She’s been telling strangers about Jesus for years. And although adults are generally polite when it comes to the confessions of children, I often wonder how to do this myself.

But maybe it’s revealed by living out the peace that surpasses all understanding in a world that suffers from constant depression and anxiety.

Or maybe it’s choosing to seek out joy when it’s hard pressed to find.

Or maybe it acts of kindness that are an expression and overflow of the kindness of God.

Or maybe it’s practicing generosity in a time of economic uncertainty and recession.

Or maybe it’s living out freedom from the burden of shame and guilt because you’re redeemed.

Or simply acknowledging someone because they are also made in the image of God and worth a moment of your time.

And then, just then, the questions may follow and you can share the hope you have.

The joy, the peace, the purpose, the goodness, the kindness, the abundance, the love – all of it lavished upon you by God.

And free for the taking for anyone who so desires it for themselves, too.