...always be prepared

to make a defense to anyone

            who asks you

for a reason

             for the hope

that is in you,

yet do it with gentleness

                  and respect.

            1 Peter 3. 15

(Always be ready,

stay watchful for that unexpected moment,

    to point others to the hope of Jesus.

People are watching us

   to know why we are different,

   why we respond differently,

   and to know after all,

              that God is real.

They don't want a prepared sermon

       or a memorized script.

They are homesick for God.

They want to know our story.)

O LORD,

Help us to know that there are

     no random circumstances,

     nor chance encounters,

but only divine appointments

    to be faithful before others

   and to bring the name of Jesus

               at a moment's notice.

Help us to be aware

               of sacred opportunities

    in unexpected places

    and among unlikely people

to love them into Your Kingdom.