Former Blackout Artist

“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…” ~ 1 Peter 3:15

“This stuff is incredible! It’s durable, you never have to paint it; it looks just like natural wood, and you never have to worry about it rotting and needing to be replaced!” Without even asking me how much it was going to cost, my customer said, “I’ll take it!”

I was far from being the greatest lumber salesman in town, let alone the world. But when composite decking came out back in the early-mid 90’s, it was truly revolutionary. Most days when someone showed up at our store looking to replace their exterior porch or deck, all that was required of me was to smile, explain the benefits of the product, and show them some color samples.

You see, I was completely confident that this product displayed in my store window would essentially get customers through my door and sell itself. By just explaining the maintenance-free aspect to the customer, that it would never have to painted or replaced, they knew that the product was a priceless long-term investment. All that was required of me was to share why I felt that way and how they could get it.

Not everyone was interested, however. Some thought that the cost was more than they could afford to spend. But I treated them no differently. I thanked them for dropping by and told them that they were welcomed to come back anytime they wanted.

When nonbelievers look at our storefront displays, what do they see? Is there something on the outside encouraging them to walk through our doors and into the storeroom of our hearts to see the inventory inside? Do we walk with a sense of peace and quiet confidence throughout the day, despite what might be going on around us, that might cause someone to take notice and be curious enough to ask us about it? Is the manner in which we go about living our daily lives, during the good and the bad times, reflecting the promise and real hope that we have found in Christ Jesus?

As Christians, we would do well to remember that there are literally dozens of people (like family, friends, coworkers) in our everyday circles who might be desperately searching for something more deep and meaningful than the world could ever offer them.

Friend, the way we carry ourselves may be the only example that stands out to someone today. Are we welcoming these opportunities when they come to share a little bit about the things that Christ has done in our lives? Or are we concerned that once they do a little investigating that they may not want what we have?

As a salesman, I could have the greatest products in the world in my store. But if potential customers aren’t aware of that, how on earth could I ever stay in business?

So today’s question is fairly straightforward: What are we showcasing on our storefront displays? Is it attractive and appealing? Better yet, does the sign on the entrance door say “Welcome! Come on in!” or “Sorry, We’re closed.”?

Connect with someone today. If given the opportunity, explain to them why you have a sense of peace, purpose, and hope in your life. Gently and respectfully, as Peter advises, let them know why you’re not like everyone else.

You never know who might jump at the opportunity to learn more about Christ, and how that conversation might completely change not only their life – but potentially the lives of everyone around them.