Feeding or caring for people is following Christ. It’s joining Christ in his work.
In talking with some of you about the Dare I realize that you feel like Peter -- a failure or not the most likely candidate to be used by God. All or nothing thinking would cause us to just give up, “what’s the use” we think. But that is what the enemy wants you to do.
Recommitting to the mission will allow us to be qualified as we keep on following Jesus in the mission. Jess reminded us that “Peter was ready for action because he was committed to the mission.” Yes, he fell down quite a few times but he got right back up and kept following Christ. Remember our first verse? “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men.” It’s in perseverance that we are developed into disciple makers, not in perfectionism.
We tend to make it so complicated. Jesus partners with us where we are. He asks us to “care for the next person who crosses our path.” This doesn’t mean preach at them. It doesn’t require a theology degree or other credentials. It means show genuine care. Be interested in them. Actively listen, look them in the eye and really listen to what they are saying or not saying. Offer what help you can whether its money, time, advice or encouragement from your own experience.
.Last night while on Facebook a chat box popped up – someone crossed my path. Thirty minutes later she said, “I didn’t think anybody cared till now.” (I’m seeing the Staples button – “That was easy.” Simple caring for people can soften their hearts for the gospel, make them feel loved and give them a sense of belonging – even change their world. “It’s so easy even a cave man can do it.”
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