In Chapter 1 (“The Man Who Won’t Go Away”) of Who is This Man?, author and Presbyterian minister John Ortberg contrasts Jesus’ influence in His own time with His modern impact on the world. Pastor Ortberg notes that the day following Jesus’ death, it appeared to His followers that whatever small mark Jesus had left on the world would quickly dissipate, as it would for any human being. Yet Jesus’ impact and following almost 2000 years after His death is unparalleled in human history. People followed- and continue to follow- Jesus simply because His life and teaching drew them to Him, blessed by His love and acceptance.
The aftermath of our ministry downsizing or career loss evokes similar feelings in us, believing that the impact of our calling may soon be a distant memory to those we once served, never again to be resurrected in any form. Yet just as people were drawn to Jesus, those around us are observing our response to our loss. It is our choice whether that impact is positive or negative. For an early Short Meditation on this topic, “Turning Darkness Into Light”, please click on the following link:
https://www.crownofcompassion.org/2011/10/15/turning-darkness-into-light/
The leader of the USSR’s League of the Militant Godless once said this about the stubbornness of the Christian faith: “Christianity is like a nail. The harder you strike it, the deeper it goes.” Are we able to witness an ever-increasing faith in the face of adversity?
Today’s question: How can we be intentional in growing our faith through the Holy Spirit’s power during this desert, transition time? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The answer you always somehow knew”
