Always Be Prepared

1 Peter 3:15

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

Well – just a few more days till Christmas. I hope you are ready. If not – well – you have 3 days – counting today. As Christmas approaches – I’ve noticed more people saying Merry Christmas this year – have you? It used to be Happy Holidays – but this year I hear more Merry Christmas greetings.

I imagine there are also opportunities to talk with people about Christmas – about our faith – questions surrounding our beliefs and our practices. Maybe the questions come from the little ones in our family – curious about why we celebrate Christmas or the true meaning of Christmas. Maybe the questions come when we make that trip to grandma’s home – over the hill and thru the dale. Maybe the questions come from co-workers or neighbors. Maybe when we talk about going to Christmas Eve services or even this year Christmas Day services – someone will ask us – why? – and we will be faced with a moment in time to witness.

In today’s passage we read Peter encouraging his readers to be prepared – always – to give a witness for Christ. 1 Peter 3:15 – But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.

Are we ready to answer the grandchildren when they ask about the baby Jesus? Are we ready to answer the co-workers when they ask why we practice our faith? Are we ready to proclaim to all who inquire concerning our faith – our love for Jesus? If not – it is better to be prepared to witness than it is to be ready for parties or gift giving. If we are not ready to witness – I would urge us to focus our time and energy on preparing.

One way we can prepare is to find another believer – a spouse – a friend – a member of your church – and ask each other questions about Christmas – about our faith. Yes – I’m suggesting that we practice our witness – our ability to answer the questions that come our way. Questions like – why is there so much evil and suffering – if there is a God? How can you claim that Jesus is the only way to heaven? What will happen to those who never hear about Jesus? Does it really matter what you believe as long as you are sincere? And more…

Each of us – as ambassadors of Christ – are called to be prepared to tell our story. 2 Corinthians 5:20 – We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.

This Christmas – be prepared – always be prepared – to tell someone about your faith in Jesus Christ! Practice with someone if you must – but be prepared. Christmas is only a few days away but our opportunity to witness is an everyday occurrence.

Just something for us to think about today as we go on our way.