Simply because my electronic pen has been dormant, doesn't mean that God hasn't been moving. Indeed, quite the opposite. Life since I last blogged has taken many a twist and turn, but I'll address all of that at the appropriate time. For now, let me just share the latest.
Beth and I went to visit some friends of ours that live in Atlanta last weekend! They recently moved to the city of over 6 million to minister to those working in the sex industry/sex trafficking. Atlanta is believed to be the third largest “hub” in the world for sex trafficking. Last Friday night, we were able to come alongside them in ministry.
As we ministered among what most would consider the “least of these”, the Lord showed me that the bottom line of all ministry is relationship and allowing God’s love to flow through us. It matters little what methods of evangelism we’ve been trained in, how bold or outgoing we are, or what talents and gifts we’ve been given. God didn’t say, “Go into all the world and make disciples, if you’re qualified/outspoken/ bold/gifted.” In fact, in Matthew 28:19, Jesus says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” There’s no room in his words for “ifs” or excuses. Yet so often we overlook the preceding verse, (Matthew 28:18) “…All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” The one who calls and sends us has qualified us, not because of anything we’ve done, but because of his Holy Spirit within us. So whether our ministry is to children, murderers, non-English speakers, criminals, foreigners, strippers, or hypocrites, let us love as Christ loved us. Let us show our love, by spending time, by speaking God’s truth, by proclaiming the gospel, by giving, by serving, and by interceding.
“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:12
How has God loved us?
Partially? Intermittenly? Conveniently? Not at all, rather his love is sacrificial, limitless, unconditional, forever!
“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends.” John 15:13
Be like Jesus today – love.
No comments:
Post a Comment