“For I have come to have much joy and comfort in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.” Philemon 1:7, NASB
We visited around the breakfast table, enjoying each other’s company. My husband and I hadn’t spent time with these friends for over a year because we reside in North Carolina and they live far away in a rugged, mountainous area. Why? They’re missionaries. They’ve devoted their lives to sharing Christ with many who’ve never heard of Jesus.
I love these friends. Their love for Jesus shines from their faces and characterizes their conversations. Time in their presence equals encouragement and a deeper focus on what really matters: sharing the Gospel and serving the Lord. Their example of living for Christ spurs me on as I seek to live for Him, too.
And here’s a compelling thought: whether we’re missionaries or not, every Christian is tasked with the same mission. God gave us the “ministry of reconciliation … and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were entreating through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God” (2 Cor. 5:18-20).
Reconciliation with God becomes reality in Christ.
As Christians, we possess the enormous privilege of sharing this truth with those who are alienated from God. We hold this treasure in our hearts, and God uses us to communicate it to those in desperate need.
Everywhere around us, people dwell in rebellion against God. They refuse to accept Him as the authority in their lives, thinking they know best. Some of them are hardened and hateful while others are very kind and generous. Irregardless, they’re lost without faith in Christ. They’re headed to an eternity in Hell.
But we—you and me—can interrupt people’s pathways with this ministry of reconciliation. By sharing the Gospel, we can explain God’s great love for them as displayed through Christ’s sacrifice. We can communicate hope by telling them about God’s free gift of salvation, and they can experience peace with God by placing their faith in Christ.
I long to imitate my friends, who bubble with joy because they share Jesus all the time. They’re busy spreading the word of reconciliation, and they’re witnessing changed lives. God be praised. “He has reconciled us to Himself through Christ, and gave us the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Cor. 5:18).
Let’s accomplish our mission. Let’s fast and pray. Let’s roll up our sleeves and pour out our lives so others can be reconciled to God as well.
God has given us a gift we don’t deserve. Let’s share.
In Christ’s Love,
Tweetables:
Reconciliation with God becomes reality in Christ. (Click to tweet)
Let’s accomplish our mission as Christians. (Click to tweet)
God has given us a gift we don’t deserve. Let’s share. (Click to tweet)
