Often all that is needed is a little exposure. At 13, I wasn’t involved in youth group nor did I attend Sunday School with any regularity. My argument was that if my parents weren’t going to church why should I have to go. Since Mom was working, it was Dad’s preference to drop me off for Sunday School and pick me up after. Then came the invitation.
The church youth were putting on a musical. I was asked to participate. Hesitantly, I showed up. We sang about Zaccheaus. It’s crazy, but part of the song remains in my mind. That one simple invitation gave me exposure to youth group I needed to continue to sing in choir, go on mission trips and eventually become a youth director at the same church.
5-7 When Jesus got to the tree, he looked up and said, “Zacchaeus, hurry down. Today is my day to be a guest in your home.” Zacchaeus scrambled out of the tree, hardly believing his good luck, delighted to take Jesus home with him. Everyone who saw the incident was indignant and grumped, “What business does he have getting cozy with this crook?” 8 Zacchaeus just stood there, a little stunned. He stammered apologetically, “Master, I give away half my income to the poor—and if I’m caught cheating, I pay four times the damages.” 9-10 Jesus said, “Today is salvation day in this home! (Luke 19:5-10 MSG).
Like Zacchaeus, I felt unworthy, but after being exposed to the One who tells each of us we are worthy, life has never been the same. Simple actions, words, encouragement or kindness can be all that is needed to expose someone to Jesus. I often make it harder than it needs to be. I forget I’m not the one who changes lives. That’s all Jesus. I simply point to something more.
How were you exposed to Jesus? Was it an instant change or did it take time to develop? Share your story here and breathe life and bring hope to others.