I want to make a positive impact in the world for the sake and name of Jesus Christ. I would guess all of us want to feel a degree of significance. But something is going woefully wrong. The ‘get rich quick’ mantra that derailed many in the 80s is now replaced with self glorification. Influence and popularity seem to be sought after more than ever. With the advent of social media apps like TikTok, IG, and Only Fans- people can now quickly monetize whatever content they put out into the world with no responsibility for the results. Jesus earthly ministry was to preach the gospel (the good news of God’s favor and forgiveness), to teach, to set people free and to heal our illnesses. One day he touched a leper and the man was cleansed. Why did Jesus tell him not to tell everyone about the miracle and instead do what the law of God prescribed (show oneself to the priest)? He told him that so that the crowds would not grow so large seeking a healing or cleansing above seeking to understand the gospel which was His primary mission. I wonder if we have discounted the primacy of our mission today?
Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out with His hand and touched him, and *said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed.” And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was cleansed. And He sternly warned him and immediately sent him away, and He *said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone; but go, show yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing what Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.” Mark 1:42-44 NASB
In what ways have been tempted to ponder at the pool of popularity? How can I be sure that the gospel of Jesus Christ remains of utmost importance?
God, as this day begins- I reflect on how lovely yesterday was when all the family and several friends gathered for Thanksgiving. I am so grateful for Your love and the life You’ve afforded. I pause to pray for those my age caring for older parents. Please give them time and energy to honor mother and father. I pray that You will move hearts and people to secure the release of the hostages held by Hamas without incident further loss of life. May people hear about the only real solution- faith in Christ as their Savior. And finally I pray that my influence would be for Your glory and the sake of seeing people take their next step of spiritual growth. This is after all my calling as I know it.
