Jesus’s prediction came true. Before the rooster crowed, Peter denied Jesus three times. When Peter realized what he had done, he wept bitterly. Why would Peter deny he knew Jesus? What was he afraid of? We will never know Peter’s fear. What we do know is that Jesus forgave Peter and then used Peter, the rock, as the foundation for His church (Matthew 16:18).

What do you say when asked if you know Jesus? Are you afraid of being judged by others, or do you seize every opportunity to share the good news? What fear do you have when it is time to speak up? Have you ever missed an opportunity to share the gospel and then felt regret?

Now is a time for Christians to share the hope of Jesus Christ. During this time of fear of the unknown, economic instability, and fear of disease, we need to be the lamps, the lights that represent the body of Christ. “No one, when he has lit a lamp, puts it in a secret place or under a basket, but on a lampstand, that those who come in may see the light” (Luke 11: 33 NKJV). We cannot be afraid of being judged or of not having all the answers. Jesus has called us to love the Lord our God with all our hearts, minds and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12: 29-31). These are the first two great commandments. We show others the love of Jesus when we serve them by putting their needs before ours.

We have an opportunity during this crisis to love others to a new life in Jesus Christ. How will you show love to others today? How can you set your fears aside? There are many opportunities without putting yourself at risk. Pray and Jesus will show you the way.