I'm Gonna Let It Shine...

I had an interesting argument conversation earlier today.  I had an appointment with a client of mine to discuss an upcoming printing project.  This is a client that I have worked with since the beginning of my career in printing.  Often when I visit with this client we engage in small talk, but today it became much bigger. 

In the middle of our conversation regarding printing, my client said to me, "interesting blog."  I was flattered, as I took it as a compliment..."Thanks!" I replied.  My client continued, "I find it interesting that you are so open with your Christianity."  I was puzzled..."hmmmm, why?"  My client raised his eyebrows and smiled, "because you insinuate that you are perfect, without fault, above others."  My gut tightened, "then you must not know me well, and you are not reading between the lines, so to speak." 

"I don't mean to offend you, it is just an observation" my client responded. 

I quickly reacted, "I am offended.  I am open with my Christianity because I am passionate about Christ and what he has done in my life, how he has changed me for the better.  I am open about my Christianity to share with others that I am NOT perfect, in fact far from it...hoping that my desire and decision to accept Christ into my life will inspire others that may not feel worthy."

My client sat back in his chair and chuckled, "I am simply sharing with you that sometimes your posts hint that since you have become a Christian that you are without sin, and that your life before didn't exist."

"Seriously?  I would like to know exactly what entry I posted that would give you that impression.  My goodness...of course I am not without sin...in fact, I struggle with sin every single day.  Everybody does...including people who you might say are more 'Christian' than me!  The difference between the me now and the me in the past is I have a relationship with Jesus and an open heart to allow His power to bring about needed change.  And by the way, my 'life' before has been forgiven."

Silence.

I looked at my client and smiled, "one more thing, I found a Savior...and I'll shout it from the rooftops, every. single. day."

"Good for you."  That was his response.  That was all he had. 

And it was enough. 

Yes, good for me. 

"Now no one after lighting a lamp covers it over with a container, or puts it under a bed: but he puts it on a lamp stand, in order that those who come in may see the light." Luke 8:16