It always brings shock and awe to me how rampant, proud and godless some people in this world can be. While most of us do not live sheltered lives, the contrast of Good vs Evil which exists on every side is sometimes more than one can bear. Fear, doubt and anger can be found at every corner, at every turn, seen in those we know, and those we don’t. Of course, this kind of evil at times, can be lurking as close as our own heart – but violent moments… Well, they seem to carry a heavier weight than other times, displaying something much deeper below the darkness, than most are willing to let their minds conceive. This type of evil is beyond comprehension and instrumental in annihiation, elimination and assassination. A spiritual realm that would have us to believe that it is in control and winning – but to Satan’s chagrin, this is far from the case. Praise God, JESUS LIVES, and we have all we need in HIM including HOPE!
It is HE who sustains us, strengthens us and renews us to hope, again. So, we can keep fighting the good fight, keep reaching the LOST, and stay on Misson for God’s Kingdom, from the examples set by the lives of martyers and those who have go on before us for centuries. Like them we must show a ferver, a freedom and a faith in God, that doesn’t stop or relent until God’s mission for us, is complete.
As we watch these examples and admire them from afar, we often discover our lives are impacted because of theirs. These Christian warriors do not cower to the enemy nor do they evade the truth to wait for safer places. They don’t run away from danger – rather they run past it to dance in the arms of JESUS! They are ordinary people just like you and I, living their lives in an extraordinary way due to the Calling on their heart. These are remembered for their mission and their faith and every once in awhile a few go beyond this temporary realm allowing us to touch the eternal realm too. Seeing for ourselves as if we are looking into a mirror, with a reflection looking back and challenging us to answer our own Calling from Christ. Such is the case in what many witnessed in the life of Charlie Kirk.
In the book of Acts, Chapters 6 & 7, we learn about another man’s story, Stephen. Stephen was chosen out of seven men, as disciples laid hands to pray for him and the mission he had for God. Stephen is described as being full of grace and power, was filled with the Holy Spirit and did great wonders and signs among the people. We are told that some religious leaders who disputed with him, could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which Stephen spoke. So, after falsely accusing him, they seized him and brought him before the counsel. Yet, the glow of Christ started to shine on his face and all those who were in the council, gazed at him. This was the moment he had their undivided attention, so Stephen took his mission to a higher level by preaching, and sharing the Gospel. Perhaps not realizing, it would be the last time. What happens next, was their hate was so strong in hearing the Truth and message that Stephen shared, they became men of rage and stoned him to his death.
At the end of Acts Chapter 7, of Stephen’s story assures us that we will see those who know Christ, in Heaven again… Yet, for those who perish on earth not receiving Christ, their lives end WITHOUT HIM FOREVER! You see, the real tragedy as those who DO KNOW CHRIST is not completing our mission on earth in carrying it out to the finish. A Mission, which is a real life and death matter – literally and eternally. I encourage you to read and sit with these Chapters in your own time with the LORD.
Violence of any kind is tragic, and senseless. However, if we look closely we will see that life is fleeting and there is an urgency compelling us that those who have yet to hear the message of Jesus, are quite frankly running out of time. The days of Grace are here and now, but make no mistake, these beautiful Grace-filled days are fading every time we miss an opportunity to share the Gospel or our our own Story of how we know JESUS.
There’s still HOPE… and I will say this, about what we have heard and witnessed in videos – throughout the last few days. Acts Chapter 7:55-59 reveals two connecting pieces to Stephens story, which also ties into the events of this week. First, although Stephen’s stoning was tragic, his mission on earth was completed and carried out well and now Stephen is with the LORD. Second, there was a man at the stoning, who was holding the coats of the men who stoned Stephen. His name… Saul of Tarsus. A man who hated Christians and went on to continue to arrest and persecute as many as he could find.
Until… Acts Chapter 9 tells us, that Saul met JESUS himself, on the road to Damascus which became his conversion and own story meeting the Savior. This eventually led to a “Calling” on his life, and the man who was Saul, became the Successor of Stephen, furthering the Gospel to the Gentiles. Maybe, you’ve heard of him? Apostle Paul.
So, this leaves whoever is reading this blog now (myself included) with one question to consider. If we KNOW JESUS, are WE living out OUR own Calling for Christ? The story we tell, the mission we finish depends on others hearing and receiving their own Call from God on their lives. (See Romans 10:14)
My Sweet Friend, the events of this week, have been brought to the door of our heart. We can choose to wait until things fade and settle down again – and go on as if nothing ever happened. Or we can become the next Successor – joining the ranks of Stephen, Paul, Charlie and so many others who are already in Heaven. The Eternal Truth that JESUS SAVES remains – but the choice is ours to complete the Mission should we accept it. Who knows, we could be the SPARK that sets off the next REVIVAL!!
Our Savior is Sweetly Calling ~ Jodie
