More than a message

 

Luke 4:38-44

The incarnation of Jesus only means as much to us as we're willing to share it. That is, if everything we celebrate at Christmas is true, that God came to us in the form of a child, that reality must become a part of our shared experience. We share the experience of God with us in worship, of course. But we're also called to share that experience beyond our sanctuaries and holy meeting places. When many of us Christians talk about sharing, our first thoughts go to sharing a message. Something we know about who Jesus is and what he did. Now, yes, we have a message. Jesus is Lord is a powerful affirmation. Plus, how can anyone believe in Jesus without hearing of him (Romans 10:14)? But the incarnation was more than a message, wasn't it? It was the beauty of seeing God's grace and truth with our own eyes. You and I weren't there to see and hear Jesus tell stories or perform miracles--I would've loved to see the reactions when he flipped tables. Still, we know and experience God's presence with us in many ways. And one of the most important ways is when we share it. Luke tells us Jesus was at Simon's house. Did Simon ask him to go there? I can imagine him insisting. His mother-in-law was sick, after all. Jesus healed her and she began to serve everyone. Then Luke tells us people with "various kinds of diseases" and "demons" came to Jesus. While we can imagine some people going on their own, notice what Luke says. "All those caring for any who were sick....brought them to him" (4:40). People brought people to Jesus. By doing so, whether they realized it or not, they shared the incarnation. Likewise, you and I bring people to Jesus, not just a message. We bring the incarnation when we pray for healing with those in need. When we encourage those who are suffering. When we stand with those in trouble or who are oppressed. Yes, "how beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news" (Romans 10:15)! And how powerful it is when people share God's presence and bring people to Jesus. Stay blessed...john