THANKFUL

Monday, December 16, 2019

Good morning, Jesus

Lord, you’ve given us the mandate to spread your message of forgiveness and salvation to those in our world. We each have a story how you showed us grace and mercy when we didn’t deserve it. It was you who gave us a new life, not us “turning over a new leaf” by our own efforts and self-will. Although our story is joyous to us and close friends, sharing our story can be intimidating. Our enemy Satan whispers, sometimes yells, lie after lie how we’re not qualified to share our story. Well, yeah, on our own we can’t, but we have the Holy Spirit within us to speak through us. When we tell our story how Jesus changed our lives, help us just follow Jesus’ example

Jesus didn’t use the complex, confusing religious jargon of the “religious elites.” Instead, he used the common, everyday words. May I do the same. Religious jargon doesn’t connect us nor build relationships to nonbelievers. Their confused looks indicate they could understand Martian better than our religious lingo. Keep us from talking over their head, but choose the right words, as your Spirit instructs. Help us meet our friends where they are so our message of grace and forgiveness is easily understood. Let us communicate with simple words the simple truth of the Gospel: God loves you and sent his only Son Jesus to pay your sin debt. By accepting what Jesus did on the cross for us, God gives us forgiveness and eternal life.

Bless, heal and restore to our dear friends and loved ones their health and wellbeing. Some may not be cured of their ailment, but their spirits can be healed from emotional wounds and unresolved issues that have festered in their souls for years. Bring peace to all who are standing in faith with them during their medical and physical challenges.

The simple truths of the Gospel give us new life in you, Jesus. Amen.