Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

In a world that can often feel hostile and unwelcoming, the call to share the message of Jesus becomes even more vital. As believers, we find ourselves navigating a landscape where many respect the church, but just as many—if not more—are reluctant to hear the transformative message of Christ. In Matthew 10:16, Jesus prepared His disciples for this reality: “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves.” We are called to go out and seek the lost, to find those who need the healing and forgiveness that Jesus offers.

This mission can be daunting. Many people today want to live life on their own terms, resistant to the idea that they might be on a pathway to destruction. In Luke 5:32, Jesus declares, “I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” It’s a powerful reminder that our purpose lies in reaching those who may feel marginalized or unwelcomed by society. The truth is that while we may encounter resistance, there are souls desperately seeking hope and redemption.

Furthermore, the message of the Gospel might challenge people’s views and prompt discomfort. John 3:15-18 illustrates the stakes: “That whoever believes in Him may have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.” This distinction is crucial—our message is one of love and salvation, not condemnation, yet it requires confronting the reality of sin. It’s not always received with open arms; many do not want to hear that their lifestyles could be leading them away from God.

In this environment, we are reminded of the gravity of our mission. John 3:36 states, “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.” The urgency of our calling cannot be overstated. The world is not merely indifferent; it is often blind to the truth. As bearers of the Gospel, we must confront the uncomfortable truths while also being conduits of grace and love.
Are we willing to step into this challenging arena, even among the wolves? Will we build relationships with those around us, sharing the message of Christ with those no one else dares to reach? It is in these very encounters that we can be instruments of change and hope. Jesus sends us out to challenge the narrative, to show that there is an alternative to a life lived without Him.

The call is clear: we cannot retreat in the face of hostility or indifference. Instead, we must advance with compassion, understanding, and an unwavering commitment to share the Gospel. The world needs the salvation, healing, and forgiveness that only Jesus can provide. Will you accept the challenge? Will you go forth among the wolves, reaching out to those who are waiting to hear the message of love and grace?

Let us remember that we are called not just to exist in the world but to engage with it, to bring light into darkness. Will you answer the call?