⁸So don’t be embarrassed to speak up for our Master or for me, his prisoner.

I wonder if Timothy told his friends about his mentor being in jail. Wouldn’t it have held him back a little? Wouldn’t it have made the people to whom he was bringing the Gospel wonder a little bit? Was it like a stone in Timothy’s shoe, preventing him from running at full strength for the Gospel?

It’s possible, and it could be why Paul was talking to him about re-igniting the fire that long ago had burnt so high for the Gospel. We must realise that God has called each of us in whatever circumstances we may find ourselves, and that we do not need to be afraid or embarrassed to stand up for the Gospel.

Maybe you have your own reasons or excuses why you no longer talk so eagerly and passionately about your faith and no longer share Jesus Christ’s message of salvation with others. Yes, it is true that fewer and fewer people nowadays talk openly about that, but ironically, more and more people need the message.

People struggle with psychological problems more than ever before. Suicide is increasing. People search for sense and meaning, for hope and love. And we? We uhm and ahh with the majority rather than standing up and talking about what is really meaningful.

We must realise that the gospel is the answer everybody is actually longing for. But not everybody realises or knows it yet. With great bravado people shoot down God and religion, but when you talk to that person on his or her own, you find that they are longing and searching for God.

Do not be embarrassed. Do not be afraid. Do not keep quiet about the Gospel of salvation that frees people from the huge burden they’re carrying. No, you don’t have to grab them by the neck and ask what their problem is. You will know what to do next time standing by the fire or drinking tea with your friends. Put your embarrassment on ice. Yes!

Scripture
2 Timothy 1:8-10

Reflection
Are you sometimes embarrassed to share your faith with others?
Do you realise it can change their lives?
To share the Gospel with others is a responsibility and a privilege.

Prayer
Father, I confess my silence and my embarrassment. I know I have to tell the people around me, but o, my lips are sealed. Please give me strength. Give me wisdom. Put words in my mouth and make me talk. About You. Amen.