Luke 8:41 And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus’ feet, and besought him that he would come into his house: 42 For he had one only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay a dying. But as he went the people thronged him.

Synagogue rulers were not the most welcoming group of people when it came to the ministry of Jesus. Many religious rulers saw Jesus as a threat to their position and privileged status among the community. However, in the middle of all the masses coming to Jesus, we find a ruler named Jairus. Jairus’ pride, position, and religious objections did not stop him from coming to Jesus because his only daughter was sick. Emergencies have a way of reshaping your outlook on life. Many of the people in your life who are opposed to the gospel message are one emergency away from discovering the life, joy, power, and peace you as a believer enjoy daily. Don’t allow their temporary disinterest keep you from being prepared to respond to them in the moment they recognize their need. Jairus came to Jesus and discovered that every good thing he had heard about Jesus was true. Here are a few things to remember and help you stay ready to witness regardless of people’s previous response.

Realize that all religious objections will dissolve when a real need is recognized.
There are strains of Christianity that are convinced that God no longer does the things He did in the Bible. He no longer heals, delivers, or intervenes in the lives of His people. However, I have discovered that those who embrace such views often change when the emergency hits close home.

Remember that those who are against you need what you have.
Don’t allow someone’s rejection of the gospel or a rejection of your witness cause you to write him or her off. That person needs what you have. If you will stay open to loving them, praying for them, and reaching out to them, it is just a matter of time before they realize their needs as well.

Understand that unbelievers become quick believers when the circumstances are right.
Be sensitive to pray, speak, minister, and be led by the Spirit to those who in the past have been opponents of the gospel. He knows when the time is right.

Today’s Challenge: Allow the Holy Spirit to lead your conversations and be bold to start encounters with those who you perceive are hurting. God can use hardships to introduce His power to people around you and He can use you as the channel of His power.