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A hush fell over the room. The only sound to be heard was the scraping of metal meeting ceramic. We were surrounded by other people, all sharing a similar mission, but no one said a word. What had been a conversation-filled gathering just minutes before had become a time of nearly reverent silence. 

It was not some great meeting of the minds or courtroom-like experience. It was dinner. A casual get-together of neighborhood friends that usually includes a meal, got distinctly quiet when a particularly delicious dish was placed before us.  With silverware on the move and mouths busy receiving and chewing the main course, the chatter stilled and the room became silent. As each of us enjoyed our personal epicurean bliss, the phrase “too good to talk about” came to several of us.

I’m afraid there are times we enjoy our Christianity in the same way. We gather together at church for worship or Bible study. We fellowship together, praising God while being fed. And when the spiritual meal is over and we venture back out into the world, our community, we keep it to ourselves.   

Keeping quiet during a really good meal usually happens because our mouths are full. Keeping the joy and excitement of drawing close to the Lord through worship and praise happens because we are afraid. Afraid of rejection or judgment from those who don’t attend church or have a relationship with the God we are excited about. Afraid we may be asked to explain or defend why we believe what we do. Fearful to broach the subject of God or church or salvation to a non-believer because we’re afraid they may be offended. Aren’t these the ones we need to be talking to the most? Shouldn’t we be more fearful of the consequences of keeping silent?

When we are intimidated by the thought of sharing the gospel or relating the joy of a truly meaningful worship experience, we need to remember that it is the power of God working in and through us that gives the confidence to speak with boldness and assurance. If we are not ashamed, God will supply the power we need to share the Word that leads to salvation. 

Jesus should never be too good to talk about … so talk.

(Photo courtesy of office.microsoft.com.)

(For more devotions, visit www.christiandevotions.us.)