“For we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:20 ESV)
Jerry was called unexpectedly to the Human Resources office at his workplace. As we walked slowly to meet with the HR Manager, he tried to figure out why in the world he would be called to the office. After all, his most recent performance review showed that he exceeded expectations. And it could not be because of anything related to attendance because he was always at work, never was a no-call-no show, and he hardly ever took a prolonged, earned vacation. Jerry was on the Safety Committee, had been trained as a First Responder, and he adhered to the union contract at all times. Jerry, a faithful husband, never flirted with a co-worker, so it could not be anything related to harassment. So, Jerry wondered step by step, as he walked to the office, “Why am I being summoned to the carpet.” Isn’t it something that people always think of the worst when they are called to the HR Office.
Jerry shows up at the office, and the HR Manager asks him to have a seat at a small found conference table near the door. After shutting the door, the manager asks Jerry, “Do you have any idea why you were asked to come up here?” Jerry responds, “No. Why?” The manager says that he had a complaint. Jerry looks puzzled because he had done nothing, in his mind, that would prompt someone to complain about him. The manager says, “Some people at your lunch table say that you are always talking about Jesus and church at the lunch table.” Jerry, taken off guard says, “What! People talk about everything in the world, I mean everything. at the lunch table, and they use some language, four letter words, profane stuff that I would never mention.”
The manager says, “Jerry, you should consider toning down your Jesus talk and church conversations or perhaps you can set with people who have a common interest.” Jerry responds, “I am doing nothing wrong and it is important to me to share my faith. I’m not pressuring anyone. So, if the complainer or complainers don’t want to hear what I have to share, they can move to another table.” Boldly Jerry goes on to say, “I am supposed to be a witness for the Lord.” The HR Manager says, “Okay, Jerry. I will give some feedback to those employees who do not want to hear what you have to say. However, if you have any problems, let me know. Also, if you see things elevating, do me a favor and tone it down.” Jerry stood up and said, “I will try not to cause any trouble, but I cannot stop doing my real job of being a witness.” The HR Manager just stares at Jerry and excuses him to go back to work.
The lesson for us is that we must take advantage of our opportunities to witness by word or deed just how much Jesus can make ones life better, and more importantly. we might help someone gain eternal life. So, when you have the opportunity, you men and women at work, be a witness for the Lord. Here’s a tip. Call it a conversation starter. If you live in such a way that you let your light shine and you don’t let anxiety and stress emanate from your actions, people will ask you, “What makes you different?” Then, you can do some personal evangelism as you answer the question. Have a great day! Be blessed!
“…and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8 ESV)
Committed to the climb,
Mark L. King