The Art of Neighbouring Part 2Sample

 COMMISSIONED TO GO 

They had been following Jesus.  Some volunteered.  Some had been called.  They had sat at the feet of the Master and listened to His teachings.  They had witnessed the miracles and had seen him minister to the people.  Now it was their turn. They were being commissioned to GO with authority and assurance.

We too have been commissioned to go and bring the truth and power of the gospel into the harvest fields of this world: our neighborhoods, our workplaces, our friend circles.  As disciples of Jesus, we are the recipients of the Lord’s merciful grace and have a powerful message of redemption and reconciliation that must be shared with a broken and dying world.  

We are to go to every corner, crossing socio-economic and cultural boundaries, taking to the gospel message to everyone from the beggar on the corner to the powerful in high places.  We are to go with the authority of Jesus Christ, as His ambassadors of righteousness and peace, and bring the hope and glory of our Savior to our neighbors.  It is a challenge from Jesus that should cause us to rise up and boldly charge ahead with a “Let’s Do This” spirit.   

Yet, all too often, we hesitate.  What is it that holds us back?  Is it fear of rejection?  Do we feel too ill-equipped or ill-prepared?  Are we too distracted and exhausted by the pace of life?

The one thing that should speak to the heart of every believer is that someone, at some point, took the time to share the Gospel message with us, to introduce us to Jesus so that we might know the joy of our salvation and the gift of eternal life.  We have been welcomed in as heirs to the throne of the Kingdom of God.  What extraordinary inspiration this should be for us to eagerly share the good news with others.    

Are you regularly having spiritual conversations and sharing good news about Jesus with others?  If not, what barriers are holding you back? Spend some time today and ask the Lord to reveal anything that might be preventing you from sharing the gospel.  Ask the Holy Spirit to show you those around you who need to know Jesus, and ask the Lord for opportunities to begin conversations.