“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17, NIV).

We celebrated the graduation of five fellows from our oncology program with a small gathering at a nice restaurant last night. I discovered I was to open with prayer. So, well before I prayed, I began working with God for the right way to end my prayer in a room filled with atheists, Christians, Buddhists and Hindu in a secular arena. I did so with the words: “As a Christian, I personally pray this in the name of Jesus Christ.”

How can we be authentic Christians and not offend?

The world so desires and intensely listens for authenticity, especially in a time where inauthentic words and deeds are practiced rampantly for personal gain.

As faithful followers of Christ, we are called to make known who we really are. However, when we do, our proclamation of God’s truth is heard by others as a declaration that their own faith is misguided. They may be hurt, or angry, or may consider us foolish and naive. The question then rises up: “How do we remain authentic without producing hurt, anger or resentment?” Perhaps we can’t.

One way might be the path of watering down truth to be more acceptable. I could have done so last night, and often have, by simply ending my prayer with the word, “Amen,” suggesting to others that I respected their religious faith, as I do. That would not have been wrong but would have been less honest than declaring clearly to whom I was praying.

I know I am magnifying the importance of a few words to a few people when Christians are dying in the Congo for their faith. In God’s plan, it probably mattered very little how I ended my prayer last night. My deliberations were miniscule in the grand scheme of things, but somehow, I need to show myself to be a follower of Christ, no matter how small the arena. As poet George Herbert wrote, “For want of a nail the shoe was lost….”

Throughout our lives, how do we live and speak authentically as disciples of Christ in a world that either cares little about Him or resents those who do? Where do I need to be more visible as a Christian this week?

Dear Father,

Teach me to speak and act authentically as your follower, guided always by your Spirit for your glory.

Amen