“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes” Romans 1:16
A few months ago, a customer pulled a nice order from us because of the “Jesus thing.” The name of the individual and the company he works for is not important. The message was delivered, interpreted and heard by my ears loud and clear. I’ve had requests on social media to dub it down and similar responses from other clients fearing their approval could negatively trigger the masses. The distraction of those taking food from our table and mocking my company’s reason for sharing the Good News, remains mild in the grand scheme.
Paul on the other hand, had it rough. Because the litany continues like a horror film that won’t end, I only note a handful - he was beaten within an inch of his life, stoned, shipwrecked, experienced peril in the wilderness, disowned by those closest, mocked by those who said they wouldn’t, thrown in jail, hungry, naked and eventually martyred…. all for Jesus’ namesake.
My only resemblance to him is that I too am the chief sinner in the group. I have loved for the wrong reasons, and I have lived with the wrong motivations. I have sacrificed the priceless to gain the material. My priorities have shifted like shadows and the mirror of reflection has barked a reminder more times than I can count of a ticking clock. I have no business being in the presence of Jesus much less even near the foot of the cross. Without Him I am rubbish and have no chance of heaven whatsoever without His intervention.
But, for some reason He still runs after me. For some reason, He moved in my direction when I was at my worst. For some reason He washed me white as snow and gave me a new name. It is His breath in my lungs, His sustenance in my veins and His promise that propels my body to preach the good news whether on rooftops made of gold or in prison cells made of coal.
Jesus encourages those with ears to listen more than 40 times in Scripture. His parables were clearly spoken and clearly communicated, and many chose to turn the other cheek, only present for their own personal gain. In my life, many have encouraged me to keep religion and business separate. Many have threatened to take their generosity elsewhere. Unapologetically I will sing a new song. I will sing from every mountain and every valley, and every platform in between because I have been redeemed. My Savior is most important and honoring Him with my life is of my upmost desire. So…. bring it on. If tar and feathering and any form of it are in store, let’s get on with it. Jesus Christ is worth it. “Those who have ears, let them hear.”
