At 24 years old, I was searching for God. I had grown up with questions I couldn’t answer. I wanted to know—deep in my heart—if God truly existed and, if He did, what He wanted from me. I had read books, listened to opinions, and explored perspectives on religion and philosophy. Instead of clarity, I found confusion. The more I searched, the less certain I felt. I began to wonder if anyone could really know the truth about God.
Then one day, God arranged a divine appointment. I “happened” to meet an incredibly kind woman named Sharon. To my surprise, she had the answers I’d been searching for. She explained who Jesus was and what He had done for me—that He took the punishment I deserved upon Himself and offered forgiveness and eternal life as a free gift. I didn’t have to earn it. I simply had to receive it. That truth struck me deeply because I already knew I could never be good enough to please God on my own. My efforts had been inconsistent and empty. I needed grace.
Sharon offered to pray with me, and in a simple, sincere prayer I asked Jesus to forgive my sins, cleanse me, and become my Lord and Savior. That moment changed my life forever. I began reading the Bible, and it came alive. I started attending a Bible-teaching church and met many more “Sharons”—people who patiently answered my questions and helped me grow. It didn’t take long to see that God was leading me into a new life of purpose and transformation. I finally understood what Jesus meant when He said we must be “born again.” It felt like starting life over—only this time seeing everything through God’s eyes.
Looking back, I realize something important. Jesus revealed Himself to me because I was genuinely seeking Him. I prayed daily for understanding, and Scripture promises, Matthew 6:33 (NKJV): “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” But there was another reason this happened. Sharon was a light. She was different—upbeat, kind, confident, and peaceful. There was something steady about her that stood out. It led me to ask, “Sharon, what makes you so happy?” That simple question opened the door to a life-changing conversation about Jesus. Her willingness to shine made all the difference.
Jesus once said, “The harvest is ripe.” What did He mean? He meant that people around us are searching—even when we don’t realize it. They’re confused, like I was. They’re asking quiet questions in their hearts. But they aren’t looking for arguments. They’re watching for authenticity. They want to see someone living what they claim to believe. Every day you are surrounded by people with spiritual questions they’re afraid to voice—until they meet a “Sharon.”
God has called us to be that light. A light is visible. It stands out. Our love, kindness, integrity, and hope should be noticeable enough that others are drawn to ask why we’re different. When that moment comes, we must be ready. Sometimes you plant a seed. Sometimes you water a seed someone else planted. And sometimes you get the privilege of harvesting—leading someone in prayer to receive Jesus. Sharon harvested me. I will never be able to repay her for that day. It was the greatest gift anyone has ever given me.
Here’s the beautiful truth: there are people in your world right now who are ready. They may not look ready. They may not speak up. But they’re searching. So be a light. Pray for awareness. Ask God to open your eyes to the quiet seekers around you. Ask Him to help you live with a steady joy and kindness that reflects Christ. Develop that heart, and it will change the course of your life—and theirs.
1 Peter 3:15 (NIV): “In your hearts, set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”
