As I watched Lainie, my 15-year-old granddaughter, walk out of Central High School, I noticed that she was wearing a cross necklace and had John 3:16 printed on her shirt.  On the way to drop off her friend Jeannie, I listened to the girls chat about an after-school Christian meeting and Lainie’s church youth group.  Then, Lainie reminded Jeannie to be ready for a ride to church Sunday morning.

I compared Lainie’s actions with my own at this same high school years before.  Although a Christian, I had been too worried about embarrassment or criticism to share my faith.  And I hadn’t done so in the years since.  But that day, I resolved to follow Lainie’s example.  I prayed for help to overcome my fears.  Soon, my simple acts — such as wearing a shirt with a Christian message, offering to pray with someone, or comforting a hurting friend — prompted conversations about God’s love.  I found ways to encourage new worshipers, invite others to church, and help with my church’s many mission projects.

The more I risked, the more opportunities I had to witness to others.  God calls each of us to spread the gospel, even if it means facing rejection or criticism.  No matter our age or situation, God will lead us to serve others by showing them the way to Christ.

Prayer: Dear God, give us courage and guidance to show others your love and grace. Amen.