“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” - Hebrews 10:24-25
As the morning sunlight gently filled the room, I found myself reflecting and praying about the people who mean the most to me – my friends and family. In those quiet moments, God began to reveal a profound truth to me: prioritizing these relationships is always a worthwhile investment of my time and energy.
Although this should be obvious, my life is always a whirlwind of demands and responsibilities. I’m embarrassed to say that quality time with friends has become a rare luxury. But recently, something beautiful has been happening. In the past six weeks or so, God has been helping me to prioritize my life. I have had the chance to reconnect with many dear friends and spend precious moments together.
It was in those shared experiences that I realized just how much I had been missing out on.
In the midst of my reflection, a powerful insight emerged: the more I focused on external ministry and the busyness of life, the less time I had for those closest to me. It was as if God gently whispered to my heart, reminding me that this way of living is counterintuitive.
True fulfillment lies in nurturing the bonds of love and connection with those who matter most.
As a parent of four grown children, I know the immeasurable value of cherishing and investing in relationships. Even as they have entered their twenties and thirties, my children remain the most precious treasures in my life. They remind me that no matter how busy I get, they deserve my time, attention, and unwavering support.
Perhaps this morning’s reflection has something to do with an article I read last night about Luke and Theophilus. Theophilus was possibly an influential individual to whom Luke dedicated his Gospel. Luke’s purpose in writing his Gospel was to provide an organized account of Jesus’ life and teachings. By addressing his writings to Theophilus, Luke emphasized the importance of reaching out to specific individuals or groups with the message of the Gospel. Though details about their relationship are limited, it is evident that Luke passionately communicated the teachings of Jesus to Theophilus. This suggests that Theophilus played a significant role in Luke’s efforts to share the Gospel. Reflecting on this, the article poses a thought-provoking question:
“Who is your Theophilus?”
This question echoed in my mind and touched a chord deep within my soul. Perhaps there are friends or family members in our lives silently longing for us to share the life-giving message of Christ with them. It’s easy to overlook the significance of investing ourselves in just one person when there is a whole world out there in need of the Gospel. But every journey starts with a single step.
I vividly remember the pivotal role my son, Ryan, played in my own spiritual journey. His unwavering love and gentle persistence compelled me to examine my life, my beliefs, and my values. Before accepting his challenge to seek Christ, I had no idea of the extraordinary value that lay in pursuing a relationship with Him and understanding the transformative power of the Gospel.
Initially, my quest for faith felt like an experiment, a step into the unknown. Yet, it was enough for God to see that I was genuinely seeking Him. Since that moment, my own journey has been a mix of ups and downs, moments of certainty and moments of doubt. But one thing remains clear:
I am forever changed.
In the process of discovering my own path, I grappled with how to share the Gospel authentically without imposing my agenda or alienating those around me. I didn’t want people to think I had become crazy overnight or to lose the respect of those whose opinions I valued. But as time goes on, I am beginning to realize that even though they may not fully comprehend what they are missing out on, I love them too much not to share the truth with them.
Sharing the Gospel is not merely about trying to persuade others or pushing our own beliefs onto them. It is extending an invitation to experience the profound love and transformation found in Christ. It is a gift we can offer to those we care about, an opportunity for them to encounter something truly life-changing.
In my latest Practical Ministry podcast, I explored the seasons of life and how they can help us discover God’s calling. In doing so, I have felt Him emphasizing the importance of prioritizing relationships and sharing the Gospel. I hear Him saying that we should not be passive recipients, but active participants in spreading the Good News.
Today, I encourage you to reflect on the people who hold a special place in your heart. Who is your Theophilus? Take a step towards them, whether it’s through a heartfelt conversation, an act of kindness, or simply being present. Share with them the immeasurable love and hope that Christ offers.
In this fast-paced world, let us not forget the power of investing our lives in just one individual. As we do so, we may witness the beautiful transformation that unfolds, not only in their lives but also in our own.
Tracy is a Marketplace Minister, licensed wedding officiant, life/marriage coach, and funeral celebrant. For more info, visit xolifecelebrations.com.
Tracy’s other content such as Topical Articles, Devotionals, Process of Illumination Blog & Practical Ministry Podcast is available here on Substack