Jesus chose us to be his friends, to get to know all that he knows from the Father, and to get to know how he applied all that he had received. Jesus invites us to have an intimate relationship with him so that he can show us his unconditional love. But Jesus did not have in mind that we should become an insular holy huddle of people with an exclusive name of the Christian Church. Jesus chose
us to enable, equip, and send us. Jesus intended us to be a missionary people. What is the best way to spread Christianity? Live a Christian life.
We have already recognised this week that when we remain in Jesus, our relationship with Jesus grows, and so does our relationship with the rest of creation.
Jesus prepared his disciples for the day he would return to the
Father, but he promised that none of those who love him would be left stranded and directionless. He promised to send a helper, the Holy Spirit, who would remind us of what Jesus taught and showed us (John 14:26). The Holy Spirit has given all disciples the fruit of the Spirit to enable us to live good, fruitful Christian lives. Equipped with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, we can encourage others to come and meet Jesus. So, the process
of discipleship will continue till the end of time.
Not all of us will be called to preach elegant words, and even fewer people have been called to witness to Jesus through martyrdom. Most of us will be called to be missionary people by what we do or how we engage with others, often through simple acts of kindness. There is a beautiful chorus that says, “They will know we are Christians by our love.” Many have come to know Jesus
through the quiet but gentle service of others.
Think of the last time someone did something significant for you. Is it possible that Jesus was reaching out to you through that person?
If you could do one thing to show Jesus to one person today, what might that be? Is it possible to do it today?
Is there something you would like to learn to do or be for Jesus? Pray that God will show you what it is and ask for the grace to open the way for you.
Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van der
Merwe
