Are you ready?

I was asked a pair of questions today that gave me reason to stop and really think. While having a discussion about salvation, and about "leading" my colleague to salvation, I was first asked, "Have you ever done this before?" Not an unexpected question if you are still on unsure footing, and seek a steadying hand to help you on your journey. My answer, the truthful response at this point in my journey, was no. Nothing I can do to change that except to move forward in my life and respond to opportunities as they are presented to me.

The second question, however, caught me a little off guard. He next asked me, "Are you ready?" I was a little put-off for a second. Was he questioning my abilities? My knowledge? My conviction? Where was that coming from? Of course, the problem was compounded by his immediate departure - he had to get to an appointment, so we were unable to continue the discussion then and there.

The truth came to me quickly, but I didn't have the time to discuss it with him. It occurred to me that there was nothing to be gained from questioning MY readiness. I am where I am because that is where God wants me to be. If I am called to help lead one of his lost sheep back home to the Lord, then is is at His behest and with His guidance. Most of what I myself would provide would have an adverse effect - my pride, my biases, my faulty opinions and logic. Those were in evidence in my initial reaction to his question. Only by surrendering myself and allowing Jesus to pour out through me will His work and will be done.

This isn't about me leading somebody to Jesus. This is about Jesus bringing a lost sheep home, using my person as His tool. I am excited about the prospect of being that tool, and of being used for such glorious work for His Kingdom.