DEVOTION: Calling Others to Follow - Kathi Macias

The two disciples heard him [John the Baptist] speak, and they followed Jesus  (John 1:37).

I belong to several writers/speakers loops/groups, and I learn from all of them. I also take advantage of seminars, webinars, conferences, and other books/resources that promise to help me in my chosen profession/ministry of writing and speaking. But ultimately, what is it I’m trying to gain from all these pursuits?
          
As a writer, I’d like to think that my investments of time and money will eventually impact my book sales. As a speaker, it would be nice to discover that the return on my investments includes being invited to more speaking venues. But how is any of that different from writing or speaking about secular topics? Why stick to writing and speaking from a biblical standpoint?

The answer is summed up in the above verse: When John the Baptist spoke, his listeners chose to follow Jesus.

Isn’t that what we all want, if indeed we ourselves are followers of Christ? Not everyone is called to write or speak fulltime, but whether you’re a truck driver, a cook, a bank teller, or a public official, if you are also a follower of the Savior, you are called to speak and live in such a way that others are challenged to follow Jesus. Sadly, not all will make that choice, but may it never be said that someone witnessed our life and never realized that we follow the risen Lord.

Christmas is a busy time, and it’s easy to get caught up in all the fun and busy events and activities surrounding this special season. How sad it would be if, during the very time we claim to celebrate our Savior’s birth, our lives reflect anything but a committed following of Jesus Christ!

My prayer for you all this Christmas is that everything you say and do will so mirror your love for Jesus that those around you will find themselves called to a closer walk with Him, for there is no other path to the Father….

Kathi Macias is an “occasional radio host” and an award-winning author of more than thirty books, including her popular international Extreme Devotion fiction series from New Hope Publishers.