“By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” – John 13:35 (NKJV)
John’s thoughts were interrupted by the loud ring of the telephone as he was preparing for his church group meeting. Upon answering the call, he learnt that Mark, his young brother, was lying in the intensive care unit at the hospital.
As he was travelling to the hospital, an incident that had transpired between him and his brother over fifteen years earlier flooded his mind as if it were yesterday. He recalled the heated argument with Mark, which led to physical contact and to his uttering these last words: ‘Unless he changed his reckless lifestyle, there would be no communication between us.’
Friends, not only did Mark face this harsh reality, but others do as well today.
Despite his numerous attempts to reach out, John refused to speak with Mark over the years.
I would like us to remember, however, that our speech belongs to God and that love covers a multitude of sins (1st Peter 4:8). We are not here to pass judgement but to extend a hand of friendship through God’s Word.
John reached the Intensive Care Unit in time to witness his brother draw his last breath. Immediately, John felt convicted by the striking reality that he had lost a golden opportunity to lead Mark to Christ.
“One breath away”:
- Brings the sudden reality that the window to share Christ can close instantly without warning.
- Creates finality. It instantly freezes our earthly opportunity to speak into someone’s life.
- Carries a heavy burden and intense guilt, wishing you had spoken up sooner.
- Highlights that telling others about Jesus isn’t just a casual suggestion. It is an urgent rescue mission because tomorrow is never guaranteed.
After that experience, John repented and began witnessing for Christ with great urgency.
Brothers and sisters, TODAY is the day of salvation, not tomorrow. Therefore, tell someone about Jesus while it’s still today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I lift hardened hearts before You, asking forgiveness for resentment and delay in carrying out Your instructions. Wash away guilt and grant the spirit of boldness and urgency from this day forward. Help us to never take another day or situation for granted and give us the courage to share Your Word with love and truth in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read: Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 88:10-18; Romans 7:7-25; Hosea 6; Hosea 7