I received a compelling letter in this morning's e-mails regarding the unrest in Kashmir, in India. The letter reported that many people have lost their lives in what they feel is a fight for freedom. In the last few days rioting has intensified to a new level. Christians are beginning to be targeted because of rumored accounts of Quran burnings in America. Westerners working in the area have had angry mobs outside their homes. Buildings associated with Christianity have been burned and the airport has been closed with several workers having no way to leave. Their spirits are remaining strong, however, as they are relying on the hand of God to protect them. The national believers are also at high risk.
The author of the letter asked that we pray that God would keep them strong!
This person's letter struck me forcefully for several reasons - - but one of the most distressing realities is that the threat of one pastor in Florida whose congregation is only 50 people could have such wide-ranging, devastating impact. Yet - - the Good News that we proclaim over and over in myriads of churches across the world - - seemingly falls on deaf ears.
But, I know that trouble is the doorway to opportunity -- and what an awesome opportunity to proclaim the true Gospel -- the LOVE of Jesus Christ for all of mankind. It's time to take the lemons and make lemonade.
The truth of the core of the Gospel - - the good news of Jesus Christ - - is John 3:16!
'For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in Him will have eternal life.' And verse 17 - 'For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved."
God is still in business. He offers His love freely - - but accepting it requires the cost of laying our lives at His feet, and sacrificing our wills to His. Eternal life begins the moment we accept Him - - and then it is no longer about us - but all about Him. And in being His servant, we are finally free. God - the creator of the universe - the Master of all that is, or was or ever will be - comes to reside in the hearts of those who choose to accept His sacrifice of His Son. There is no other way to God. We have this one brief window before the door to eternity closes forever.
Anyone thirsty for some lemonade?
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