Ambassadors

02 Jul Ambassadors

Read 2 Corinthians 5:11-21
Thought for the Day: “Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ.”

Take a moment and imagine living as a celebrity in 2021. And in our example, don’t think of the kind of C-list celebrity who only appears on reality TV, imagine being an A-lister. For better or for worse, you would immediately be acutely aware of your “brand”. No longer a private citizen, you would quickly realize that as a public figure, everything you did would be seen and analyzed by others. While it might seem like celebrities are living the good life as you watch from a distance, fame comes with many challenges. As an A-lister, you would be completely different from the majority of society and certainly feel that crushing weight. It does not sound easy to be an A-list celebrity!

Quick reality check: we are probably not going to be A-listers on earth. BUT, as Christians, we actually have a lot in common with A-list celebrities. (1) We have a “brand” because, for many people, we will be the only Bible they will ever read. Remember, our actions are seen and analyzed by non-Christians. (2) How we live is how our non-Christian neighbors, friends, and family members assume all Christians live. And let’s be honest – (3) the days of cultural Christianity are long over. We ARE different from many in our society. So, Christians actually have a decent amount in common with A-listers.

But here is the good news. Scripture is crystal clear that none of us is expected to be Jesus. Instead, we are to accept our roles: “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” As we learn to be bridge builders, let’s start with the simple understanding that we represent Jesus to those around us. Rather than seeing that as a burden or running away, let’s accept the challenge. We get to bring Jesus’ reconciliation to our communities!

In Christ,
Pastors Stan and David