Too often, when the world is hurting, the Christian response is to say, “Well, it serves them right! We warned them that this would happen!”

In many world views Christianity is called more of an angry political activist movement than a spiritual and unified community, devoted to handing out hope and healing to a hurting world.

Of course, the Bible talks about not loving or embracing the dark underbelly and seduction of the world, or the things of egotism and the fleshy pleasures of world.

We are in fact, commanded and warned to come out from among them and be separated from the darkness and its devious plans and actions taking place in the world.

But! We are also absolutely called to be salt and light in a dark, hurting, chaotic and sinful world!

We are called to speak out boldly with voices of HOPE AND HELP, calling people to run from the enticements of sin by showing them genuine concern and grief over their lifestyle or choices.

However, all of this must be presented with compassion and genuine concern. Truth MUST be spoken in love.

Like Jesus, we are to be people full of grace and truth. Our culture must know us as “truth-tellers”, but we must be truth-tellers with the evidence of tears.

It’s not us who are the victims! They are!

They are the ones who are enslaved to sin!

They are the ones whose minds are darkened.

They are the ones whose eyes are blinded.

When we interact with those trapped in seared and earthly thinking or with our enemies, it must not be out of hate and spite, even if those same things are spewed out towards us.

We must live as examples of the forgiveness and mercy of Jesus and act out of love and compassion.

This is Christ’s example and his instruction to us!

“Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.

Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you shall be satisfied.

Blessed are you who weep right now, for you shall laugh again!

You are called “Blessed” when people hate you and when they exclude you and spitefully challenge you and spurn your name as evil, because of your love the Son of Man!

“Rejoice in that day, and jump for joy! Look! Your reward is great in heaven! Remember, their fathers did the very same thing to the prophets,” Luke 6:20-23.

 

In His Shadow,
~ Mary Lindow ^©

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” THE MESSENGER ” ~ Mary Lindow
www.marylindow.com
Global Prayer Rooms

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Mary Lindow has a passion for encouraging others – all generations, careers or vocations to live expressing excellence through personal integrity, healthy accountability, and wise management of talents and skills. She’s a sought after keynote, inspirational, humorous speaker and teacher across the USA and internationally in Ministers & Spiritual leaders Conferences, and training seminars for various organizations.

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