LIVING ON MISSION

Reflections after the January 6, 2021 White House Take Over  by Dan O’Deens

“Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” Mark 16:15   The mission was clear then and is equally clear today.  Have we lost our mission in exchange for comfort?

The name of our country is The United States of America.  As we take an honest look in the mirror I wonder if we have now become The Divided States of Entitlement.  We have lost our way.  Our focus for too long has been on the White House rather than on God’s House and the one who is the Head of the Church, King Jesus.  He is King of kings and LORD of lords.

We have embraced an American God with borders, when clearly our God so loved the world.

The mission of Jesus demands a daily surrender and taking up our cross and a denying of ourselves to a greater cause.  God demonstrated His love to us in the midst of our worst sin.  He who loves first wins.   Love God and Love your Neighbor was the heart of the Savior.

Jesus left his disciples with the understanding that He could return in their lifetime.  They lived as though His return was imminent.  Jesus’ followers understand that the soon return of their Savior meant that they should busy themselves with the mission of God.  They lived life to the fullest as if every day were their last.  We too should live as though today was our last.

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.  But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.”  2 Peter 3:9,10

This world is not our home.   But we are to ‘occupy’ and carry out the Mission of Jesus until Jesus the groom returns for His bride.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble but take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 1§:33

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God, believe also in me.”  John 14:1

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1

“The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins.  Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay.  God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.”  1 Peter 4:7-11