LITTLE ROCK — DEAR REV. GRAHAM: My family never had anything to do with religion, and they've always made fun of people who did. Well, recently I became a Christian, and now I'm the butt of their jokes. I feel so alone. I admit I don't like being an outcast from my own family. Have I done something wrong?
- J.L.
DEAR J.L.: No, you haven't done anything wrong - not in God's eyes. In fact, you've taken the wisest and most important step anyone can ever take, by giving your life to Jesus Christ.
The most important truth I can tell you is that God loves you and knows what you are going through. He is with you every moment of the day, and you will never be alone. Your family may laugh at you or even reject you, but you are now part of a new family - the family of God. Remember: Jesus knew what it was to be rejected by an unbelieving world. He said, "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first" (John 15:18).
Don't argue with them, however, or become defensive or combative; that will only make things worse. Instead, ask God to help you demonstrate the love of Christ to them. They may not believe your words (at least at first) - but they can't argue with the witness of a changed life.
Write to Billy Graham in care of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C. 28201 or visit the Web site at
ActiveStyle, Pages 27 on 08/31/2009