10Aug 07
Are we Walking the Talk?
posted by
One day last week a need arose for a few items at the grocery store. I was available and drove over to Wegmans. Spanning thousands of square feet with more varieties & types of food than you can imagine, Wegmans is a one of a kind store. A little tired from earlier activities, I found myself slowly wandering about looking for the needed groceries. Thankfully, I remembered everything on my mental list and so proceeded to check out.
I greeted the young cashier (probably not much older than I), Dan, and watched as he loaded the bags. Noticing the great amount of people and probably close to 20 check-out lines that were open, I commented on it being a busy day. Dan replied that it was, but said that Sunday was actually busier and in particular Sunday afternoon when all the church people come in. I listened and my sleepiness gave way to alertness as Dan went on to say one of the most impacting phrases I had heard in a while. “…and those church people sure are rude.” About that time he had finished checking me out. Dan handed over the receipt and I was on my way with a full cart and troubled heart. What a poor testimony Christians have in our world! When was the last time I showed Christ by my actions?
How many times would Christ like to show Himself through me to a wondering world but I allow urgencies, worries, and pride to take over. The verse comes to mind, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me (Matthew 25:40).
Walking out of Wegmans, I saw my lack and the need to be a ready and willing testimony (2 Cor. 3:3). Burdened greatly from this quick but profound encounter, I received new enthusiasm for serving. We have a mighty task before us. While I can easily talk the talk, walking the walk is what the world is looking for. This is ministry! Praise the Lord for the timely reminders of His commands. May we continue to be open to His lessons along the way!
You and I, as Christians, may be the only physical encounter a lost soul has with Christ.
Very sobering but also exciting. Look at the oppurtunity and challenge set before us, christians, to be a dynamic witness for Christ. Our prayer should definitely be for a revival in the hearts of the millions of American Christians. You hit the nail on the head Joshua. Thanks for your encouragement.
May we make a difference! I like the quote “We can’t change our circumstances but we can change the way we respond to them.”
Well said Matthew & Jennifer. I believe I once heard a quote that went something like, we should not pray for a greater work because prayer is the greater work. Praise God that He doesn’t seek perfection, but a heart that desires His perfect will. I’m encouraged!
Joshua, Jenny, and Matthew- you are such an encouragement to Team Southerland. Thank you for pressing upward and onward for the Lord Jesus Christ! May we bring Him all the glory and praise that we can!
-Mrs. Southerland
Talking the talk without walking the walk is really hypocrisy, which Jesus sharply commanded us to beware of (Luke 12:1). Thank you for the encouragement to be real, Josh, and to be a living demonstration of Christ!