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The Gospel of Jesus Christ
There is some discussion that 2020 is one of the worst years ever. Whenever a celebrity passes away or two hurricanes briefly threaten simultaneous landfall in the same location, people say it’s just the way things are in 2020. Even if that’s exaggeration, it’s not good to be held up in comparison to previous years with terrible natural disasters, social unrest, or tragic loss of life.
And yet, no matter how things go up or down on earth, the Gospel of Jesus Christ remains unchanged and appropriate for each and every situation.
A Worldwide Health Concern
This year, and hopefully only this year, will always be remembered as the year of COVID-19. The fear of this disease and its spread has people around the world wearing masks, not shaking hands, unable to visit their loved ones in hospitals and nursing homes, and so much more. All around the world men and women are concerned about the long-term physical well-being of themselves and their loved ones while we wait for development of a vaccine.
The Gospel of Jesus Christ tells us of the much greater danger caused by a worldwide spiritual health pandemic. But thankfully there is an immediate cure, complete in its effectiveness, obtainable by all, with a never-ending supply for any who seek it.
While all are affected (Rom 3:23), we also know that all can be saved through Jesus. For God so loved the world, that He gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him. (John 3:16-17)
We’re excited about the thought of an eventual vaccine for the virus. Let’s make sure we're more excited about the cure for sin.
Fair and Equal Treatment
Although our country was founded more than 200 years ago on the self-evident truth of equality for all men, there still are times we see that it isn’t the case. Arguments could probably be made on all sides of each situation that has recently been part of these reinvigorated discussions, but in the end, it is absolutely true that not everyone sees everyone else as equally deserving of the same opportunities, with the same responsibilities, and held to the same expectations.
The Gospel of Jesus Christ says there is one place we can be assured there is no preferential treatment. For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek: for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing His riches on all who call on him. For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. (Rom 10:12-13)
Man may be biased by things of this earth and outward differences, but the Gospel of Jesus Christ is for everyone. Let’s share it with everyone and see the people around us only as God sees them - souls in need.
Questions about Leadership
Political division and mudslinging have been around in our country since even before the first president. It’s no surprise that it still exists over two centuries later and increasingly as we near another election. Candidates question opponents’ credentials, actions, and motives. Their promises are not believed.
It’s easy for me to be disappointed in all the options lately and I'm at times frustrated that these are the best our nation is able to produce for such important responsibilities. I'm probably destined to always have that feeling unless I can put a Mark Ellis for President sign in my yard or one that says something like “Aim High by Voting Lowe” for the first ever twin presidential ticket of Lowe & Lowe.
The Gospel of Jesus Christ tells us we submit to one above all reproach who acts only for our good. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. (Heb 4:15)
Jesus' resume is supreme and his love was shown by his great sacrifice and the promise of restoration. And He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything He might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through Him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of the cross. (Col 1:18-20)
Earthly leaders may disappoint, but we are led by a shepherd ready to give all for us (John 10:11). Let’s talk about him more than we talk about those seeking national office.
Be thankful and spread the good news - the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is the cure for sin, available equally to all from our loving and powerful savior, the King of Kings.
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. (Rom 1:16)
