Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

Do you know somebody who is a "Nones?"

In truth, I didn't know what a "Nones" was until I read the Dallas news story which spoke of Americans who don't identify with any religion. The "Nones" get that name because when they're asked about their religious affiliation they say, "None."

The rest of the article gave the explanations of experts as to why someone might be a "Nones."

One scholar said "In the news media "Christians" are routinely depicted as narrow-minded bigots bent on keeping out anyone who is the slightest bit different. They are defined by what they are against, not by what they stand for. Love is rarely talked about while judgment is always talked about.

Another said, Christianity has been used historically as an excuse for pogroms, wars, crusades, Inquisitions, and others terrible things.

Yet another suggested, 'over the last 50 years (is that) people are finding supportive communities in many forms, from book clubs to rugby clubs, and religion seems not only "outgrown" but unnecessary.'

One final expert (that I'm going to share) said, "Religion has done a poor job generally of answering the difficult questions about the mysteries of human existence and the meaning or purpose of life in the face of a world that has lost its imagination."

According to these experts, Christians haven't done much of anything right. And if they're right, that's a shame.

Maybe that's why St. Paul encouraged Timothy (and us) to do our best, to become, by the Holy Spirit's power, a worker who needs not be ashamed, rightly sharing God's Word of truth and eternal life.

St. Paul was right. All too often, and unfair as it may be, unbelievers judge the Savior by what we His servants do and say.

That's why, as we take seriously the job Jesus has entrusted to us, we need to be good mirrors for our Redeemer, doing our best to accurately reflect the gracious sacrifice of the Savior to those "Nones" who constantly are looking for reasons not to need or believe in Him.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, for the sacrifice You have made, I give thanks. Now may I, in word and action, show to the "Nones" the wonders of the salvation Your life, death, and resurrection have given. In Your Name. Amen.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Micah 4-5    Acts 21:18-40

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