Ridgell's Originals

I continue to believe that more people are receptive to the Christian Way right now than has been true in some time.  Covid.  Politics.  Racism.  Life.  Addictions.  Relationship struggles.  Economic hardship.  Uncertainty. Death.  But we have to be sure we are communicating the real message of Jesus. 

It is tempting to emphasize that the kingdom of God has never been partial to any race or nationality.  And that is true.  We haven't always lived up to it, but we have tried.  That has been a consistent message from God.  All are welcome to enter the Kingdom.  All.  Great intro point to talk about Jesus, but equality is not the main message of Jesus.

Life matters.  Also a fundamental truth of the Way of Jesus.  We take care of our families.  We take care of each other.  We serve others, even if they are not part of us.  The second great command for our lives as believers is to love others -- all others -- as we love ourselves.  We take care of old people.  Sick people.  Babies.  We care for those that cannot take care of themselves.  Even in the face of danger, we do for others.  Great message to share to intro Jesus, but not the main message.

We are not at home in this world.  We are not part of the hatred, violence, and meanness of the current political system.  In spite of what a few would lead you to believe.  We are part of the Kingdom that has always been and will always be.  All the true authority in the world resides in our King.  There are some looking for that kind of allegiance, but that is not the real message.

Here is the message we need to be sharing.

Jesus died for all our sins.  And we all have them.  Everyone -- every person -- knows there are things they have done that they should not have.  And things they did not do that they should have.  Jesus died so you would not have to answer for those.

Jesus rose from the dead.  Resurrection.  That is why we do not fear death.  That is why we walk into danger to serve others.

I am sorry if some of us that really do believe have failed to get to the real point.  But this is what we believe.  Jesus died for our sins and was raised from the dead.  

If you believe this, you can be part of the Kingdom of God.  Every one.  No matter your race.  No matter what you have done.  

All you have to do is decide to give up on yourself and give in to Jesus.

And people are doing that every single day.

If you want to know more, let me know.

steveridgellministry@gmail.com  

# posted by Steve @ 5:00 AM