A Catholic Notebook: Alone in a Room of Unbelievers

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Alone in a Room of Unbelievers

As Catholics, we all find ourselves in situations where we are the only Christians in a group of people. It may be in the workplace, at school, the family you marry into, a group of friends or simply a random gathering. I believe it is our perspective that matters most when we find ourselves in these situations. Here are three points that have helped me.

1) You are not entitled to a Christ-loving home, workplace, environment, or country.

We are not owed an easy walk with God.
A believer in a room of unbelievers is an opportunity for miracles. The chances to love others with God’s love are endless. The opportunities to share the Gospel are innumerable, whether by your words or by your actions. Remember, "preach the Gospel always, and if necessary, use words."
We need to make the most of where Jesus has placed us in our lives. It is crucial to realize how intentional His plan is for us and that through Him, we have more influence than we realize. Ask the Lord for direction as you build and form relationships with unbelievers, and be ready for God to use you to share His truth with them. Backlash should be expected, intolerance as well . . . offer it up.

2) You are part of God’s family

Being the only Christian in a group can feel lonely or raise defenses. It is important to keep sight of the bigger picture. In God’s family, we are here for each other, we are called to bear burdens together, to encourage one another, to teach, correct and love one another. Praise God for the Sacraments. They fill us with grace and give us courage.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to Mother Mary, the angels and the saints, and each other. Remember that God is the author and perfecter, not us.

3) Changing hearts is God’s job, not yours

Maybe this is the most important reminder.
In Romans 8:37, Paul says,

“Overwhelming victory is ours, In Christ, who loved us.”
Christ already has the victory. He is the author and perfecter, not you. We must remember to submit to His will. Meditate also on Corinthians 3:7,
“So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth.”
Apart from Jesus we can do nothing, but in submitting to Him anything is possible. Pray for your family and peers. Share the Gospel and the Bible with them, but remember it is God who is working all things together, not you. Be submissive to God working through you. Turn constantly to the Holy Spirit.