© Copyright Harleston Grapevine 2011

Harleston Methodist Church

I met a Christian lady recently who spoke of her sons, wishing that they, like her and her husband, would make a commitment to Jesus; and also said that they wanted to keep their friends and would their friends respect a Christian? My friend wanted them to be different but on the other hand could they still be themselves and have fun with their friends?

Let's face it, being an example to others is often being different. But most of us don't want to be different. We want people to like us, and the safest way to do that is to blend in. Following Christ has never been about blending in. Following Him means to be like Him, to respond to life and relate to people as He did. It's a little risky and uncomfortable to be different, but that's what an ambassador for Christ is all about - bringing the wonderful difference of your King to the places where you are at: your home, office or with your friends. Representing the King is not just our calling,it's a great honour.

My own upbringing began with a non-Christian family and when I made my commitment to Jesus at the age of thirteen I knew I was different. I earned respect and kept my friends and enjoyed their company. I didn't have to blend in.

Make a difference by daring to be different. You never know what influence you might have on someone else's life.

Colin Basham