Ministry of Reconciliation

[pioneer]

By Anne Cetas
Our Daily Bread

Jim was sharing the gospel with Kerri. He told her she was separated from a holy God because of her sin, and that Jesus had died and risen for her salvation. She kept coming up with one reason not to believe: “But if I do receive Him, I won’t have to tell other people about it, will I? I don’t want to do that.” She said that didn’t fit her personality; she didn’t want to have to tell others about Jesus.

Jim explained that promising to witness about Jesus wasn’t a requirement before receiving Him. But he also said that once she came to know the Lord, Kerri would become His ambassador to the world (2 Cor. 5:20).

After talking a little longer, Kerri acknowledged her need for salvation through Christ. She went home excited and at peace. Funny thing happenedâ€"within 24 hours she told three people about what God had done in her life.

Because we have been reconciled to God through Jesus, we now have “the ministry of reconciliation,” according to the apostle Paul (v.18). We are His ambassadors, and therefore we implore people “on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God” (v.20).

When we’re thankful, we want to share what God has done.

[Lorenzo]

Ms. Cetas has a point. Indeed, we are reconciled with God when we declare Jesus Christ as Lord of our Lives. What is also important is that sometimes we tend to hold differences and use it as an excuse for rude behavior and belittling fellow brothers and sisters. I myself am guilty of this and reading this message allows me to realize and assess myself at times. There are times that my tongue is sharp and hurtful. I don't want this. And yes, it is true, we have to reconcile with each other and pray others be reconciled with God. God forgives those who forgives. So, time to swallow my pride and start being more forgiving with people whom I have qualms with. Let everything go. Give it all to Christ.


Amen.