Men with Girls' Names

I have two friends who do not know each other, but they have three things in common. They’re both men, neither is a Christian, and they both have girls’ names.

I’m using their real names because there’s not a chance either one will ever read this.

Chris is 32, never married, no children and asked if I’d meet with him to talk about Jesus…who he doesn’t believe in.

Shawn is 49, divorced with 3 grown children and volunteered to teach me how to repair and rebuild bicycles.

I meet with Chris and Shawn under different circumstances once a week. Chris at the coffee shop and Shawn at the bike shop.

Chris has said to me he wants to understand Christianity, but admits he’ll likely never become one.

Shawn told me when he’s ready to talk about faith matters he’ll let me know.

Both of these men seem to like me, trust me and look forward to our times together. On the flip-side, I like them and absolutely enjoy our times together.

I don’t know what will happen through our conversations and meeting together as time goes on, but I do know this, I have unique influence in both of their lives.

Jesus said, “…let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matt. 5:16

Influence is something I realize is given to me by God as a stewardship.

God has blessed me with Chris and Shawn. And while I legitimately enjoy their friendships I’m also aware that my life and words have influence on them.

I ask God to use that influence to be a light that always shines on Jesus simply because He’s the light that always shines His grace on me.

Everyone has influence. It’s a gift God gives us to steward well for His glory. And it may be the only influence of its kind in another person’s life.