I RECENTLY enjoyed my 30-year college fraternity reunion and had the opportunity to renew acquaintances with one brother. He grew up in an urban, low-income, and crime-ridden region. I thought the passage of time, family life, and adult responsibilities would change him. After all, my young adult morals have changed considerably with respect to “acceptable petty thievery, lying, and deception.” So I thought it might be the same with him. But I was wrong.
Immediately upon picking him up at the train station, he wanted to go to the red light district – as his intentions were to party all weekend. As a precursor to calling his wife later in the weekend, he wanted to rehearse my telephone alibi to her regarding his ‘good’ behavior.
Rather than affirming his plans, I decided to pull him aside and have a “come to Jesus talk” right in my car. After 30 years, it was time to see a Christian path to greater righteousness. As we talked, I saw a little light come on in his eyes. I knew he always respected my opinion, and it looked like he still did – even about Jesus. Now, he wasn’t perfect during that reunion but, given the drinks, few were. And since that weekend, he calls me quite frequently for prayer and support. I guess, sometimes it takes 30 years to find God.
Do you know someone at work like that? The coworker who brags about weekend conquests. That person cheating on his spouse. The one who seeks only the good times. You need to pull him aside. It’s risky, I know, but find the words to talk about Jesus, His grace, and His mercy. Tell him the truth: no matter how long sin has been the centre of his life, he hasn’t sinned more than you. Tell him more of the truth: you found your way to Jesus – and he can, too.
Today at work, pull him aside. Find a way to talk about forgiveness and grace through His blood. After all, that coworker may not have 30 years to wait.
Reading
Ephesians 1:7 (KJV) In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.
Prayer
Lord, I am a sinner. Guide my heart to curb my sinful ways and lead me closer to You. Today at work, help me introduce You to a coworker who deeply needs You – just like I do. Help me pull him aside. In Your name, I pray. Amen.
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