So . . . earlier this morning I had a 'come to Jesus moment'. Ladies, I especially know you know the kind. You know the one where if one more thing happens you will probably fall apart and things will not be pretty. Well, I had mine earlier this morning. The kind where you have to pull over to the side of the road and have that talk with Jesus, tears and all. Ironically enough, the Pastor has been preaching a series on getting rid of baggage and picking up the bags that God wants us to carry. We've been talking about the section in Matthew (11:30) when Jesus tells us, " . . .my yoke is easy and my burden is light." I know from first hand experience that sometimes it does not feel like the load is light!! I know that usually means that I need to change something in my life. Today though, it really got me thinking about the homeless. It was one of those moments when God's response to me was, "Really . . .I mean really? Are ya serious?" I remember how heavy, hopeless, and full of burden I felt. Most of the things that I felt were weighing me down are temporary things that are 'in transition' in my life. Yet I still felt so overwhelmed. It was then that the light bulb went off and it made me realize that this is probably how most of our campers feel every day. The difference though is a biggie. I have a roof over my head. I have food in my fridge. I have a shower any time I want. I have a big bed to sleep in. I have a job. I have clean clothes to wear. I have a wonderful family that loves and supports me. How big could any of my other problems be?? Really? It is no wonder why so many of our homeless turn to unhealthy habits to numb their pain. I wonder if I was in that situation, would I be any different? The biggest difference isn't house or tent, bicycle or car-the difference is Jesus. I am a different person because I have Him in my life. I have seen the change in our campers when they have him in their life too.
This week I challenge you to do something that may make you very uncomfortable but may make a huge difference in some one's life. Give them the gift of Jesus. Invite them to church. Dare to talk about their salvation. When you come face to face with that homeless man or women this week, don't just talk about the weather or yesterday's game. Talk about Him who gave you hope and a new life. Give them a reason to keep living and dig out of the situation they are in. Let them know how you are able to keep going on the days that the load doesn't feel so light. Because the truth of the matter is this: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentile and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."-Jesus, Matthew 11
BTW, today, none of my circumstances suddenly changed. However, I have a peace in me that I did not have this morning. That feeling like Jesus said to me, "It's okay-I got this; we had that talk, I know where you're at." I know he does. Wouldn't that be a great feeling to be able to pass on to one of our campers? "It's okay-I got this." "I have plans to prosper you, not to harm you. . ." A gift of peace and hope for a better future!
Amen!!
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