Courage to Be Light

At the beginning of the school year, one of my former colleagues, who is an evangelist and pastor,  asked me, "In your job, do you get many opportunities to witness and share Jesus with others?"  Sadly, all I could say was no not much.

Since August, I can say that God has reminded me of that question and He has given me courage to be a light by seeing where He is at work in the lives of my colleagues.  Once I see where He is at work I simply join Him in that work.

One time, I visited with a teacher who needed technical support and she ended up sharing the challenges she was facing on this new campus- new people, different school culture, etc.  As she shared she began to cry.  I was moved by her situation and her tears.  It took everything in me not to weep right along with her.  Still, I did what I knew to do.  I asked, "may I pray for you?"  She said, "please".  It's amazing how big a difference a small prayer can do.  Recently,  she shared a note with me thanking me for the support I have been to her.

This past week, one of my colleagues shared that her son was having surgery this week.  I asked if we could pray for her "right now" and she, too, said yes.  So, me and several others took a moment to pray for her and her son.  As we concluded our prayer, we hugged and I saw other mothers wiping their tears.  Prayer has a way of touching each of us, right where we are.  I guess God just knows us like that.

I'm so glad my former colleague had the courage to ask me that question.  It has challenged me to look to see where God is at work.  Once I see it, then all I have to do is join.  I want to be able to say the same words Jesus said, "I only do what I see my Father is doing."  Prayer may not count as witnessing but it is giving me a great opportunity to share God's heart with others and share in lifting their burdens.  

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30