This past weekend, the
Worship Ministries of Fayetteville First Baptist Church presented the dramatic
musical experience“The Hope of Christmas”. Several months ago I was approached by the
drama team of our church asking if I would be willing to play one of the parts
in this presentation. I was to play the part of the Pastor of an urban church
attempting to reach those in a large metropolitan area. Honestly, this role has
stretched me, both artistically and spiritually. It has caused me to see the
gospel, and the story of Christmas, again in a new light.
After repeated attempts to share the hope
of Christmas with those around him, my character begins to show a little wear.
Having just tried to share the gospel with a runaway teenage boy, my character
is encouraged by a church member.
Church member: “You okay, Pastor?’
Pastor: “I’m okay. I just wish I could get
through to the people around here.”
Church member: “We will. Don’t give up
hope.”
Pastor: “Hope. That’s what it’s all about,
isn’t it?”
If you are a Christ-follower, and have
attempted to share the good news of Jesus with others (which is what
Christ-followers do!), you have probably found yourself feeling the same way.
Tired, frustrated, and maybe even ready to give up hope. But let the words of
this anonymous church member encourage us all this Christmas season. We
shouldn’t give up hope! Why? Because there is a great need right at our front
door. A need for the hope that only comes through a relationship with Jesus
Christ. We, as God’s people, have been given the great privilege, content, and
context in which to share this hope. Now, by the power of His Spirit, He has
called us to share.
Whether you are a Pastor in a local church,
or you are a layperson running errands in your community, serving in your
child’s school, or living out your faith in the marketplace, God has placed you
in critical areas of influence for His Kingdom’s sake. He has called you as His
missionary to your specific “field” of service. He has equipped you with the
good news of Jesus. And He has given you the message of hope that a hopeless
world desperately needs. Now all you have to do is share and watch God move!
May God bless you as you share the good
news of the hope of Jesus with all who need Him this Christmas season.
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