“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ,
and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; that is,
in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself,
not counting their trespasses against them,
and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us.”
2 Corinthians 5:18-19
The comedienne Joan Rivers had a catch saying: “Can we talk?” Usually, she was about to dish on someone, or say something profound. But the phrase is one for us to consider as Christians: Can we talk? How are your conversations with those whose opinions may be different from yours, or whose race or religion may be different?
Jesus was great at engaging folks in conversation. Those who agreed with Him, but especially those who did not agree. It’s easy to be in conversation with those who agree with you, but let there be a difference of opinion and well… Have you ever had an argument with somebody and afterwards you wondered – how did we get here? What were we even talking about to end up arguing? Emotions can get the best of us, can’t they? Why is it so hard to just talk?
We can talk about the Super Bowl (go, Chiefs!), but can we talk to our neighbors? Jesus met people where they were and just talked with them. And He showed us by His example how we should speak with others – with grace and truth. You need a healthy dose of both to engage in healthy conversations and bring reconciliation.
We have been given the ministry of reconciliation by God. Therefore, it is our responsibility to engage people and bring them to reconciliation with God and with others. Church, can we talk? Can we talk to those who are different from us? Can we talk to our neighbors, co-workers, that estranged family member? Can we tell them about the Savior who died to set us free? Can we talk? Jesus is counting on us to do just that!
Worship with us online this Sunday at 10:00am, at www.umcgt.org.
And join me this Monday at 8am, and every Monday, for 15 minutes of prayer and devotion on our prayer line, where you can call in and listen, or give a prayer request if you like. The phone number is: (727) 731-7163. Call in on Monday, and be a part of this time of Scripture, prayer, and hope. This is also a great way for those without internet to stay connected with the church and hear the voices of friends, so please spread the word to our senior saints, and to those who may live alone.
“The Lord bless you and keep you;
the Lord make His face to shine upon you,
and be gracious to you;
the Lord lift up His countenance upon you,
and give you peace”.
Numbers 6:24-26
Blessings,
Pastor Linda