The world is changing rapidly, yes?
Do you ever get the feeling that sharing Jesus has become harder and more costly than you had known it to be before? That if you identify with that name, you will be seen as a bigot, homophobic, a fundamentalist, intolerant, a hater?
One may conclude it is safest and best to stay quiet about what God’s word says to the world, rather than to cause more conflict. But if we do not speak, how will they know? We who know Christ are the ones he has commissioned to tell others about who he is. How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news! (Romans 10)
The world seems to be shouting what they think and screaming at each other. Though this may not be the way we are to enter the arena (though maybe at times it is?), our Lord gave us instructions before he left this life and they remain today. Christ’s followers are still called to go and make disciples of all nations…Islam, Ethiopia, Ukraine, the United States. Jesus 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.”
Inherent in these verses is the fact that we will need to speak his truth. We will need to make decisions about how we live before a world that thinks his commands are foolishness. We will have to call others to leave their former ways–as we have and are doing–and join in the cause for Christ. It will be costly! But the return on the investment is immeasurable! And through it all we can be comforted to know that surely he will be with us….to the veryend of the age!
It is tempting for Christians to grow quiet in the face of opposition…to run to the hills, withdraw from the culture, buy a farm in reclusion and live a peaceable life. But scripture says we are the means God uses to share the good news. Though the world may not see it as good news, it still is! and though the hour seems to be growing late, there is still a day appointed unto salvation and it is called TODAY!
May we continue to speak his name and share Jesus and the hope that we have in all circumstances because of Him. This is the greatest news that ever was told! and in this advent season, may we act in faith to be able to audibly speak to others and share his plan for salvation.
May we pray for distinct, real-life opportunities to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with someone even this very month. Hasn’t he changed your life? Don’t you want others to have an opportunity to know the eternal Hope that cannot die? Isn’t this what love is?
In Christ’s love,
Erika
