Ministry of Reconciliation
Wherefore if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature: the old things are passed away; behold, they are become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
A friend of mine told me that she was at the start of a new day, that she could sense a time of new beginning for her life, while she was in church a little while ago. My friend was so ready and blessed with the fresh start she was sensing from the Lord. Her smile was so big, and there were tears welling up in her eyes. Her words stayed with me, and then this morning the words from 2 Cor 5 were there, echoing what she had expressed.
The passage in 2 Cor 5 says that (I am paraphrasing) because Christ died for all, it stands to reason that all were dead. In a recent transition into the workforce, I get more and more firsthand glimpses of people in need of that fresh start, of that creative spark of love and life only God can work in our lives. It is an amazing ministry we are given: to have the logos of reconciliation written in our hearts. To think we are given an opportunity to awaken a world that reels from the constant empty disappointment from each attempt at fulfillment. To ache for others because we remember what it is like so well.
It is no wonder so many are attracted to zombie movies and tv shows. Something deep inside identifies with dead people walking around, with the way zombies are drawn to the living. Many vicariously identify with heroes who kill that walking 'deadness' that should not exist. Vampire media is the same- we instinctively know we are meant to live forever, different than the 'norm,' so it resonates and draws people in. There are so many counterfeits and half truths out there, promising people some satisfaction and ending in emptiness. They come close, it feels right, but it doesn't last. Media has such influence upon people. I believe that as the body of Christ, we need to be a constant influence in that arena with the logos of reconciliation. We need to allow Holy Spirit to keep us growing in our ability to express the life, love, truth and hope we ourselves have been shown in Christ. We/I need to be stirring up the gifts He has placed within us, improving our creative abilities to influence and reach out as salt and light.
ambassador
noun
1 : an official envoy especially : a diplomatic agent of the highest rank accredited to a foreign government or sovereign as the resident representative of his or her own government or sovereign or appointed for a special and often temporary diplomatic assignment She's the American ambassador to Italy.
2a : an authorized representative or messenger
b : an unofficial representative traveling abroad as ambassadors of goodwill
The Greek definition for Ambassador is not much different than the one in the dictionary, except is speaks of being a senior or elder. Does that make you feel disqualified to represent Jesus because you are not a church 'elder?' Consider these words of Jesus:
For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. (Luke 7:28)
The Greek word for 'greater' translates as 'larger' and ELDER. You have potential to reach many more people than John did because of Who you represent as an ambassador of our 'elder brother,' Jesus Christ. We do this in both the physical and spiritual realm. I hope you will be encouraged to occupy your place given in the midst of 'foreign territory.' Watch closely for the creative ways God wants to use you to bring heaven to earth, and be watchful in prayer over the places and people He puts on your heart. May our hearts break for real and true fresh starts be revealed to many. When you approach your next creative piece, think about what you are doing in the way of bringing the occupation and influence of His heart into desert places. May His Spring of love and life refresh many through our occupation, watchfulness and dedication... my fellow ambassadors :) -Shell
March 3 - Kacie Copeland and Vesta Henderson
March 17 - Denise Laventure and Barbara Vaughn
March 31 - Warren Follet and Amber Parson