The Hope in You
Advent Week One, Day Seven
1 Peter 3:14-17

Focus: “... always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you…”

I was recently caught off guard when asked by fellow believers to give my testimony in three minutes or less. As a believer, why was it such a struggle for me? It caused me to wonder what opportunities I’d missed to share the love of Christ with people I knew.

Though I was able to share my testimony, I was saddened and somewhat ashamed that I wasn’t more prepared to give an instant answer for “the reason for the hope that is in” me. As I further examined my heart, I realized that I tended to view my Heavenly Father in the same manner as I viewed my earthly father… with great fear and a profound sense of having failed him. Maybe it was that association, those old feelings of unworthiness, that caused me to be ill prepared when asked about my testimony.

Further reflection reminded me that as a teenager, a seemingly chance encounter introduced me to my high school sweetheart, whose influence eventually led to my salvation. That chance invitation forever changed my eternity! In an instant I knew the love of a Savior and was seen through his loving, restorative eyes. My vivid memory of that moment is easy to describe!

I am extremely thankful that we serve a God who desires a personal relationship with each of us and although I recently faltered at being able to express “the reason for hope that is in” me, that hope is indelibly pinned on the one true and loving God who desires to free us with his love and peace.

Challenge: Look for ways this Advent season to give instant answers about your faith to the people you meet.