Called to Witness

We asked children (ages 7-9), preteens (ages 10-12), and teenagers (ages 13-16) from around the world to write for the Review in August. The following article is one they produced. —Editors 

Sometimes the hardest part about following God isn’t believing; it’s finding the courage to share that faith with others. Hello! My name is Lavella Dela Cruz, I am an eleventh grader at Atholton Adventist Academy, and I am so excited to share a piece of my life experience with you.

For most of my life I went to a small Christian private school where it was normal for people to talk about their beliefs. All the staff and students prayed together, we had Bible classes, and everyone seemed to share similar beliefs. But when I entered a public school for the first time during my ninth-grade year, it was a very different atmosphere. I was exposed to a lot of people from many different backgrounds, beliefs, and life experiences. I can’t lie; I was starting to get a little nervous. It wasn’t a part of everyday conversation! But I felt the Lord calling me to share His good news with everyone, so I got to thinking and started to wonder: How could I share my beliefs when there were so many people who had so many different opinions?

I can’t lie; I was starting to get a little nervous.

To get started, I tried making friends. I didn’t want to just dive right into any heavy conversations yet. I focused more on getting to know people; joining clubs, eating lunch with classmates, and discussing common interests I had with others.

Eventually my faith naturally became part of those conversations. Sometimes it came up when people asked about my background, what I liked to do on the weekends, or if I was free on the Sabbath to hang out. That opened the door for me to share that my faith is an important part of my life. Instead of preaching or trying to debate people, I simply shared what I believe and why it matters to me.

I have also started inviting my friends to church events. Instead of making it feel formal or intimidating, I talk about it as I would any other activity, just something meaningful I’d like them to experience. Whether it’s a youth night, a special event, or church service, I invite them to come along and see what it’s like. Although there were times I got no for an answer, that didn’t make me want to quit sharing the good news of the Lord. I prayed for His guidance, protection, and wisdom, and in the end God has brought the people closest to me closer to Him.

Sharing faith doesn’t always have to be a big speech or a dramatic moment.

I’ve learned that sharing faith doesn’t always have to be a big speech or a dramatic moment. Sometimes it’s just living your beliefs, showing kindness, and being willing to talk about what you believe when the opportunity comes. By building friendships and inviting people into something that’s important to me, I’ve found a simple yet meaningful way to share my faith.

While it was a big change going from a Christian school to a public school, and dealing with rejections from people I’ve invited to church events can be hard, it also provided me with opportunities to grow and gain more wisdom. Although I am no longer in public school, I am now able to connect with people who haven’t heard about my faith before, and sometimes all they need is a simple invitation.