In the course of a normal day, you may either say "Bless You" after someone sneezes or be told "Bless You" by someone else after you sneeze. This is often done out of habit and without thinking. There are many tales about the origin of this expression. One of the stories says that back in 590 AD there was an epidemic of airborne germs and the Pope began offering this blessing to sufferers from the illness, since in those days it was a high probability that death was imminent with any illness. Over time, and particularly over the last few decades, the "God" part of the expression has been left out and shortened to just "Bless You."
What if we started the trend of adding "God" back to the "Bless You?" What a simple and non-offensive way to slip God back into any situation, even with non-Christians. Since this phrase is so common after sneezing, it is not threatening to those who normally would shy away from any conversation dealing with Christian aspects. In this world we live in, we are so reluctant to spread God's word, even though we have been commissioned to do so. It always seems particularly uncomfortable to start up conversation about religion with any self-proclaimed non-believers. A simple "God Bless You" will show your concern and give you yet another opportunity to spread God's name in a positive light.
Matthew 28:18-20
Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (NIV)
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