Matthew 5:11 [NIV] | 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
By nature, we habitually seek the simple and peaceful life. Who wants to live in chaos and confusion? Regrettably, we live in a world that is filled with unrighteousness. We live in a world that seeks self over others, receiving over giving, isolation over community. God calls us to be a light in a dark world. He desires that each of us speak mercy and grace into the lives of those around us. God never promised being a follower of Jesus would be easy. Jesus says, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
Today’s key verse can be challenging words to read and hear. We prefer a simple life and yet God says we should expect the opposite as we live our lives for him. He desires that we go out into this world as ambassadors of Christ sharing truth of God’s love. God’s Word teaches us that others should see Jesus in our thoughts, words, and deeds. Our lives are to reflect Jesus in a tainted world filled with chaos and temptations. God has given us a task that comes at a great cost – we will be persecuted because of Christ.
God chose each of us to be witnesses of his mercy and grace. Jesus sends us out with a great promise to never leave or forsake us. He guarantees to be with us each step in our journey. As we face the challenges of this life, we rejoice in the promise of new life given in Christ. We celebrate in anticipation of the Day when Christ returns to restore his kingdom to full completion. A Day is coming when there will be no more pain and suffering. As we await the return of Jesus we share God’s love to a hurting world so that others can escape the powers of a sin filled world.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the opportunities you give us to serve you. Open our eyes and ears to see and hear the moments you have placed before us to help grow the kingdom as we serve our neighbors with your love. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Action Plan:
Today I will seek God’s strength and protection by being a light in the world as I share God’s love with…