Lessons from Chris

"Columbus sailed the ocean blue in 1492." This little ditty is learned by school children all across the United States. It is an important date in American history. What was the purpose of Christopher's exploration? Well, besides business, he wanted to prove that the earth was round. Although he didn't actually circumnavigate the globe, he did challenge the world's thinking. He went against the flow. He stood up to the majority. As the Harris twins say, he did the hard thing.

Being one of the crowd is an easy thing to do. Agreeing with the majority is comfortable and secures a place for us. We are welcomed and included when we think like everyone around us. However, does this benefit us? Does it benefit the Kingdom? No. Not at all.

How can we stand up and challenge the world's thinking? What platform do we have to stand up and say, "Jesus is the only way to heaven." Do we take advantage of the opportunities that are presented to us? Pastors from California call it a Kingdom Assignment. Some call it divine appointments. Call it what you will, but when God wants you to do something, be sure to obey. Be intentionally opportunistic!

Ephesians 5:8-17 (the message)
"You groped your way through that murk once, but no longer. You're out in the open now. The bright light of Christ makes your way plain. So no more stumbling around. Get on with it! The good, the right, the true - these are the actions appropriate for daylight hours. Figure out what will please Christ, and then do it. Don't waste your time on useless work, mere busywork, the barren pursuits of darkness.

Expose these things for the sham they are.

It's a scandal when people waste their lives on things they must do in the darkness where no one will see. Rip the cover off those frauds and see how attractive they look in the light of Christ. Wake up from your sleep, climb out of your coffins; Christ will show you the light!

So watch your step. Use your head. Make the most of every chance you get. These are desperate times! Don't live careless, unthinkingly. Make sure you understand what the Master wants."

Use what the world dishes out and point it for Christ. Yesterday was "National Coming Out" Day. I challenged the youth at my church to Come Out for Christ! According to the little children's Sunday School song..."Hide it under a bushel...NO! I'm going to let it shine!"

Stand up and be counted! Challenge the world's thinking and lead them to Christ!