Following Jesus

     We love our sisters and brothers in the faith. Studying the Word together, counting on one another for prayer, and worshipping together is essential. Our church communities are meant to build us up in the faith, encourage us and give us strength to live as Christians in a secular world. But we are not meant to close ourselves off from that world. Jesus gave His followers what is called, “the great commission.”

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.  Matthew 28:19

     The Pharisees did not like the fact that Jesus hung out with the “wrong” crowd. He spoke with prostitutes, dined with tax collectors and even spoke to a Samaritan woman in the light of day. Those lawmakers liked to turn their noses up at the “sinners” congratulating themselves on being nothing like them.

   While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with Him and His disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they asked His disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.”  Matthew 9:10-12 

The world needs Jesus.  We are to be the light of the world. Light overcomes darkness. Be a witness for Him.

Dear Lord,

The church is meant to open doors and look out to others. Keep us from hiding ourselves away in our safe places. Move us into the world around us. We have Your joy and Your love. Let it be contagious.

Amen