My daughter showed me that a follower of Yeshua (Jesus) can lovingly share their faith without being a jerk! I know, if you live within the western world of Christianity that may feel a bit oxymoronic. Perhaps it's because you've encountered a misguided religious zealot?
I find there's a disconnect for many people with what it means to share one's faith with someone who doesn't believe as they do. Have some mistranslated the Messiah's great commission? Instead of going out and making disciples, have they instead opted to go out and make converts? I've witnessed first hand this process, and unfortunately have seen many, believers in G-d and non-believers, burnt by a pressure-induced, guilt-laden message. Sadly, at one point in my life I was the one delivering that message, attempting to convince and argue people into Yeshua's Kingdom. I say "sadly" because I realized I was doing more harm than good--for myself included. I came to the realization that my faith journey had evolved into a Boy Scout Religion. Next badge to earn? This is probably why at one point about eight years ago I just stopped. I stopped striving toward the goal of getting people through the doors of a church or to pray a prayer with me. And I attempted to simply be a friend, loving, and leading by example. Just letting my light shine.
Last week my soon-to-be five year old, Eden, came up to me and shared that she felt Abba (her name for G-d) was telling her to go and give her Bible to one of our neighbor's kids. I believe I knew where this was going, but I wanted to test the motive and in the process use it as a teaching moment.
"Why do you want to give Sammy your Bible?"
"Because he can read the letters and I can't yet." Ok. My direct question deserved that answer, but I wasn't satisfied. Rephrase.
"How do you know he doesn't already have one to read?"
"Because he told me."
"You mean you asked him?"
"Yeah, he said he doesn't know Abba and doesn't have a Bible?"
Honestly, I was in shock. My four year old was asking a fourth grader about his relationship with G-d?!? How aware. How bold. How...loving.
We went over right after that and she offered her Bible to Sammy, her face lit up with a smile. It was the light within her, shining brightly, just as Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
What was the good deed, though? It wasn't like she was offering to tag team with Sammy in mowing the lawn or help quiz him with his multiplication facts. The good deed was her obedience to what she felt was G-d's voice inside her heart, leading her to offer a gift.
Eden taught me a great lesson that day. I can share my light without burning others. I can lovingly offer the gift of getting to know G-d without shoving my flame in someone's face.
