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“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” 1 Peter 3:15

Maybe it’s because I’ve been alone for 24 hours in my house (which generally isn’t the case). But, despite the waves of blaring praise music and inspiring podcasts and complete silence, I am a bit melancholy. I glance up from my laptop at shelved family photos of my parents and two handsome brothers—photos I see every day sitting in this same spot. Today, though, I’m overcome by rush of sadness.

See, my mom died 25 years ago—actually, I am right now the same age as she was when she left this world. My dad died 13 years later…and my oldest brother will be gone 10 years this Thanksgiving. And today is his birthday. Both my mom and brother died very suddenly; but I was given the opportunity to talk with my Dad about death and fear and hope and Jesus. And for that I am eternally grateful.

I say all that to offer up some questions: Who do you need to talk with about Jesus? Why are you waiting? Is it a family member? Your best friend? A coworker? Are you thinking things like, “Well, I’ll witness through my actions,” or “I don’t want to preach at them, because I might lose the relationship,” or “I’m afraid I won’t be able to answer their arguments”?

Sisters, I am right there with you. But let me say—to you and to myself—we must find what makes us bold.

For me, today, in this weird emotional place I’m in, it was hearing that a dear lifelong family friend is in the hospital (not COVID-related). I know for a fact he has not trusted Jesus as His Savior. I know he struggles with the existence of God. And although I’ve been privileged with the opportunity to share my faith walk, send him books, and email links to the great apologists, he has not surrendered his doubt. And he lies in a hospital bed—alone because of COVID-19—in pain, depressed, and afraid. This makes me bold.

Because writing is my thing, I composed a long plea and emailed it to him. No holds barred. Because, what if he doesn’t make it out of the hospital? I pressed “send” and I prayed.

So, what if today is last opportunity for you to share with your family member, bestie, or coworker? What if, like with my mom and brother, you are awakened by a phone call telling you they’re gone—and you lose your chance? None of us knows when we’ll take our last breath.

It’s time to be bold, sisters. Let’s share the reason for our hope. How can we not?

“Lord, give me boldness to share the Truth of who You are and what You’ve done—time is of the essence.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Ministry