Sharing Christ with Others

James, a follower of Christ, sat across from his old friend Mark at the local coffee shop. They hadn’t seen each other in years, and as they caught up, their conversation shifted to deeper matters.

Mark leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "I just don’t get it, James. If there really is a God, why doesn’t He show Himself? Why all the mystery?"

James smiled, not surprised by the question. "You know, Mark, that's a question a lot of people wrestle with. But I believe God has shown Himself in more ways than we often realize. The Bible says in Romans 1:20, 'For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.' Creation itself points to God. Look at the complexity of life, the universe—it's hard for me to believe that all of this is just by chance."

Mark raised an eyebrow. "I don’t know. That still sounds pretty vague to me. If He really wanted people to believe, wouldn’t He make it obvious?"

"I get what you're saying," James replied thoughtfully. "But I think that’s where faith comes in. Hebrews 11:1 says, 'Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.' Faith isn’t about blind belief. It’s trusting in what we can’t fully see but know in our hearts. God wants a relationship with us, but He doesn’t force Himself on anyone."

Mark took a sip of his coffee, considering the words. "I don’t see the point in believing in something I can’t prove. I believe in science and what’s in front of me."

James nodded, understanding. "Science is amazing, and I believe it reveals the order and beauty God put into creation. But not everything about life can be explained through science alone. Think about love, justice, or even purpose. These are real things we experience but can’t always measure. The Bible also tells us in Proverbs 3:5, 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.' Sometimes, faith is about trusting even when we don’t have all the answers."

Mark leaned forward, a bit more curious now. "Okay, but what about all the bad stuff in the world? If God is so good, why is there so much suffering?"

James took a deep breath. "That's a tough question, Mark. But from a Christian perspective, the Bible explains that sin brought brokenness into the world. God gave us free will, and with that comes the ability to choose wrong. Romans 3:23 says, 'For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.' The good news is that God didn’t leave us in our brokenness. He sent His Son, Jesus, to bring hope and healing. John 3:16 reminds us, 'For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.'"

Mark frowned slightly. "But what if I’m a good person? Isn’t that enough?"

James shook his head gently. "Being good is important, but none of us can be good enough on our own. Salvation is not something we can earn through good deeds. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, 'For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.' It’s about receiving the gift of grace that God offers us through Jesus."

Mark was quiet for a moment, clearly reflecting. "I’ve never really thought about it that way."

James smiled, sensing a shift in his friend. "I didn’t either until I realized I couldn’t do life on my own. I found peace in trusting Jesus, knowing He died for my sins and offers a new life. Revelation 3:20 says, 'Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him.' He’s always there, waiting for us to open that door."

Mark nodded slowly, his expression thoughtful but still uncertain. "It’s a lot to take in. I’ve always had my doubts, but... something about what you’re saying makes sense. I’m not sure I’m ready to dive in, but maybe it’s time I start searching for some answers."

James smiled, his eyes full of understanding. "I get it, Mark. And remember, Jesus isn’t asking for you to have it all figured out right now. He’s just asking for an open heart. In Matthew 7:7, Jesus says, 'Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.' He’s ready when you are."

Mark looked down for a moment, then back at James. "I guess I’ve been afraid of what I’d find if I started searching."

James leaned forward, his voice gentle but firm. "Don’t be afraid. You’ll find a love deeper than anything you’ve ever known. He’s not waiting to condemn you—He’s waiting to welcome you. Whenever you're ready to take that step, He’s already reaching out."

Mark’s face softened, a new sense of curiosity in his eyes. "I think it’s time I start knocking."

James smiled warmly, "And when you do, you’ll find Him waiting with open arms."

"I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?" (John 11:25-26)

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“What I write is not for everyone, but what I write is meant for someone.”

I am the author of two books: Embracing God's Wisdom: A Journey of Faith and Reflection and Embracing God’s Wisdom: Paul’s Commands for Victorious Living. Both are available on Amazon.

If you have any comments, questions, or testimonies to share, I would love to hear from you! Please reach out at: hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service. (1 Timothy 1:12)