One's Craft

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…” – Romans 1:16

Sadly, this direct message came at a very unexpected moment in my life. In case you don’t know, she is a well-known DJ affiliated with Soulection, the renowned Los Angeles-based label that hosts many of the most talented DJs and producers of our time. I was somewhat close to her. We had moments when we’d hang out after shows and discuss music. Those times felt like freedom to me—the idea of connecting with an artist who seemed to understand things on a near-telepathic level.

But that was then, and this is now. As I grew older, my mind entered a new stage of development. For me, growth and connection became deeply spiritual. I accepted Jesus into my life in July 2016 and was baptized as a born-again Christian in July 2017. What this means is that I dedicate my entire being—100%—to Jesus. He is above all: above your parents, your money, your freedom, and everything else.

Then this happened. A person I truly respect asked me, “Should I always include Jesus in every topic or situation?”

The following Sunday, our pastor preached on the topic of being unashamed of your faith in Jesus. Are you with Him at all times, or do you hide behind the bushes when you’re around others? Maybe it was God’s timing, but that message struck a chord with me. When she asked me that question, I stood firm, and I did not regret my answer. I am not ashamed of Jesus.

Not only did I stand my ground, but I also responded with some truths. Why are Christians always persecuted? Why do you represent Buddhism and yet harbor hate toward us? Why is Christianity “bad” in your eyes? It felt as though the Holy Spirit was guiding me with courage. I remembered Jesus’ words: “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first” (John 15:18). Christians have been persecuted since the beginning of Jesus’ ministry in the Middle East. To many, His teachings seemed absurd: Why should we love our neighbors? Why should we avoid violence, even when others hate us? Why should we believe this man from Jerusalem is the Messiah?

What helped me through that moment was faith. When Jesus died for us, He wasn’t ashamed. Instead, He stood by us and said to God, “Forgive them, for they know not what they do.” If Jesus wasn’t ashamed even when persecuted, shouldn’t I be unashamed as well?

When she asked why I bring Him up, my answer was simple: because He is perfect. He has all the answers. This whole conversation started because she posted about doing good deeds without boasting. But let’s face it—that wisdom comes straight from the Bible. James writes: “As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them” (James 4:16-17). These teachings are over 2,000 years old, yet people present them today as if they’re brand new. Jesus already had the answers.

And so, I am not ashamed. If you’re reading this, you shouldn’t be ashamed either. One of my favorite speakers, Martin Luther King Jr., was never ashamed when he marched for equality in the name of Jesus. If he could champion social justice under Jesus’ guidance, imagine the power Jesus can give you—even in something as small as an argument with a famous DJ.

I may lose that friendship or connection now that time has passed, but my faith in Jesus has only grown stronger because of this test. It doesn’t matter to me. When I die, I hope Jesus will recognize me for this act of faith and perhaps many more to come. I leave you with this verse from 1 Peter:

“Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf” (1 Peter 4:16).

Amen.