FEBRUARY 1, Romans 1:16

“Wouldn’t it be exciting to live like the early Christians did — meeting secretly in homes and caves?” asked Nathan as he and Siew Leng walked home from their neighborhood Bible club.

“It’d be more dangerous than exciting,” said Siew Leng. “Back then, Christians were often thrown in jail or put to death because of their faith. They had to meet in secret to stay alive.” She tucked her Bible in her bag and waved to a girl on the other side of the street. “Hi, Olive,” Siew Leng called. “Hi,” responded Olive. “I just got out of my gymnastics class. What have you been doing?”

“Oh, just hanging out,” said Siew Leng with a smile. “See you in school tomorrow.” Siew Leng turned back to her brother. “I’m glad we don’t have to meet in caves and be secret Christians nowadays,” she said. “It looks to me like you are one,” Nathan observed. Siew Leng frowned. “What are you talking about?” she asked.

“You didn’t tell Olive you were coming from Bible club,” replied Nathan. “Why not?”

“Are you kidding?” asked Siew Leng. “Olive is the most popular girl in my class. I want her to like me. She’d think I am crazy to go to a Bible club.” “So that’s why you hid your Bible in your bag?” asked Nathan.

“Like I told you. I want her to like me. I don’t want her to tell everybody that I go to a Bible club. All the kids would make fun of me!” Nathan shook his head. “I still think you act like a secret Christian,” he insisted. “I think you’re ashamed of being one at all.” Siew Leng’s face turned red. “I… I…” She couldn’t think of anything to say.

Nathan sighed. “I know it’s hard to be a witness,” he said, “but if the early Christians were willing to die for Jesus, I guess the least we can do is put up with a little teasing.” Siew Leng was silent for a while. Then she nodded. “You’re right,” she admitted, “but what can I do about it now?” A minute later, she smiled. “I know what to do!” she exclaimed. “I’ll invite Olive to come with me to Sunday school this weekend.”

Thought: Are you a secret Christian?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, sometimes I am embarrassed to let people know I am a Christian. I do not really know why, but what I know is this – that it is wrong. I must be willing to let others know I am a believer, and that I love Jesus. Help me never to be ashamed of Jesus or my faith in Him. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.