Ambassadors

26 Apr Ambassadors

Read 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 (NLT)
Thought for the Day: We are Jesus’ ambassadors.

For many of us, we have had moments where we have wondered what it would be like to achieve fame and celebrity status. Take a moment to imagine what life would be like as a celebrity in 2022. But, for this exercise, don’t think of the sort of C-list celebrities only appearing on reality TV or forgotten YouTube channels. Imagine what it would like to be a genuine 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 the rest of us watch from a distance, fame comes with many challenges. As an A-lister, you would be completely different from the majority of society and this could quickly feel like a crushing weight rather than a privilege.

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: “So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making His appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back 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 this as a burden or running away, let’s accept the challenge and begin by praying for others. We are Jesus’ ambassadors and we get to bring his love to our community!

In Christ,
Pastors Stan and David