There are false Christians (see 2 Cor 11:26). Like the moon, these Christians may reflect just enough of the light of Christ to attract others. What little light they reflect may attract some who seek escape from the darkness of sin (see 2 Cor 11:13-15). However, these false Christians are like a "bug-zapper" light. If those unfortunate, searching souls get too close to the false Christians, their fledgling faith is zapped and killed as surely as if they fell into a hidden tomb (Lk 11:44; Mt 23:15).

We must always examine our life to see if we are completely radiating the light of Christ. We may talk about Jesus and temporarily attract people. But are we then leading people who search for Jesus further away from Him? Do our lifestyles, words, or actions influence others to:

• be more fear-filled than faith-filled,
• sin in thought, word, or deed,
• stifle the Spirit (1 Thes 5:19) rather than fan the Spirit's flame (2 Tm 1:6),
• talk about their problems rather than bring them to Jesus,
• trust in their own provision rather than God's, or
• contracept or abort their children?

Jesus says it would be better for us to be drowned in the sea with a great millstone around our neck rather than lead astray a simple believer, such as our child or family member, who comes to us (Mt 18:6). Therefore, we must be always watchful lest we fall (1 Cor 10:12) and lead others away from Jesus.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Daniel E. Pilarczyk, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 21, 2005

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