Christmas Conversations

Our family was excited about visiting a small dam located near the foothills of a mountain. On reaching there, however, we found no signs of water in the river, only arid ground under the scorching sun. Just as we thought that our trip was a

complete waste, we struck up a conversation with two local men. In the course of the conversation, one of them suddenly asked, “Who is Jesus?” Starting there, we embraced the opportunity to share about Jesus with them.

In Acts 8:26-35 we read about Philip, a disciple of Christ, who was led by the Holy Spirit to meet an Ethiopian eunuch in the desert. As he drew up near the chariot, he heard this royal official reading the prophecies about Christ from the book of Isaiah. Philip did not lose this opportunity, and so starting with the very questions that the Eunuch posed, Philip shared Jesus and immediately the eunuch had a divine encounter with Christ.

Like the Eunuch and the man we met at the dam, many people are

seeking the truth. They are waiting for someone to tell them about Jesus—but the way we share Christ with them matters. These conversations may

happen at work, at the gym, in a café, at school or while commuting home. Wherever they happen, our response must be gentle and respectful (1 PETER 3:15). Sometimes these conversations don’t even need words. As Francis of Assisi said, “Preach the gospel at all times and when necessary, use words.” This Christmas as we are presented with conversations, may our words and actions lead others to Christ.

How can your words and actions showcase Christ this Christmas? How might God direct you towards others?

Dear Jesus, show me someone who needs the good news about You this season. Keep me sensitive to the prompting of Your Spirit.