“But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. ‘Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.’ But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” – 1 Peter 3:14-16

Be Ready

Had New York Jets linebacker Mo Lewis not hit New England Patriots quarterback Drew Bledsoe on that fateful day in 2001, one of the greatest NFL careers ever may not have happened. Bledsoe gave it a go the next series but ultimately had to be replaced by an unknown six-round draft pick named Tom Brady. The rest, as they say, is history. Brady led the Patriots to a Super Bowl win that season and Bledsoe never started a game for the team again.

Now, Brady is arguably the greatest quarterback of all-time. But what would have happened if Brady wasn’t ready when his number was called? He could have very easily gone through the motions at practice without really trying to become a better player. It wasn’t like he was told by the Patriots that he was going to get a chance to show what he was capable of and Bledsoe was a very good quarterback. Instead, Brady made the most of his time on the bench and absorbed everything he could so that if he did get to play, he would be prepared to make the most of it.

We need to take the same approach Brady did as Christians. Opportunities are going to arise where we can share our faith and our beliefs with others, or to simply offer words of love and encouragement to someone. Those opportunities could come at any time and in any place, so we need to be ready. When the chance comes comes, it might be the only time that we get to share the love of Christ with that person.

When the time comes, make sure you’re ready!

– Joshua Doering