WEEK 5 - REAWAKENING TO THE MISSION OF CHRIST
This week, we will look at some of the things Jesus has called us to do as we live on mission with Him in this world. He defines and assigns the mission we are to carry out. May we carry it out in obedience and dependence!
DAY THIRTY FOUR - PREPARED TO GIVE AN ANSWER - JAVIER GOMEZ
1 Peter 3:15
15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,
Being prepared to give an answer must begin with becoming the very occasion for the question. In other words, we start by becoming a riddle that the world simply can’t ignore any longer.
That’s why in the Sermon on the Mount, we are called to be a city on a hill unable to hide. And that’s why in the Great Commission, we are told to make disciples as we go. Because in the mission of God, we don’t push or argue with people into following us; instead, we pull them. Or rather, we attract them. In effect, we live a life that draws people’s attention and makes them wonder about our distinctive joy, love, peace, freedom, and hope.
The most compelling Christian witness is our very lives being led by the Spirit. The gospel promises that such a life erupts as I learn to die to my natural inclination to take all matters into my own hands by no longer trusting myself instead of God. Again, rather than taking charge by using every strategy and human strength at my disposal, I choose moment by moment to deny myself. Only then will I be able to pay attention to and follow the powerful presence of Christ within me. And through His personal care and wisdom, I will receive the very freedom, grace, and peace everyone seems to be looking for anxiously in all the wrong places.
In this messy and hurting world, such a life won’t go unnoticed, awakening deeply personal and life-altering questions. And surely, only the very pouring of that miraculous life will satisfy the questioner’s quest. I would call that discipleship.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Ask the Lord to help you trust in Him more today and to fill you with His peace.
2. Pray that He will grant you the opportunity to be in life-giving conversations with others.
3. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in being a showcase of His goodness and mercy.