Contrary to Facebook links and religious commentary, I believe the Church has one of the greatest opportunities right now. People are desperate for Jesus, though not necessarily desperate for the religious institute of church – the building and org structures.
I believe we have our greatest opportunity right now to be light to the world. Here’s why.
The Church shines brightest when things are darkest.
Churches might not be at their best right now. But that’s because many of them are wanting the world to look more like the church. The problem is, the Church shines brightest when the world is darkest. Fortunately, some churches are rising up. And some of the Church – the people who are the body of Christ – are rising up. That’s the opportunity we have.
We can shine brightest right now that the world is darkest.
Christianity’s image is eroding. But that means Christ is getting clearer.
Unfortunately, with so many politically vocal Christians and argumentative personalities, people’s opinions of Christians is eroding. But to be honest, that’s good. If there are only slight differences between you and the type of person people are repelled by, it’s hard to stand out. But when people see you acting contrary to what they think Christianity is all about, it opens a window of influence into their lives. They’re willing to explore with you a bit more and see what makes you so different.
People are looking for hope.
Finally, people are looking for hope. We know Hillary isn’t the hope for the world. Neither is Trump. Neither is any third party candidate or any politician for that matter. Only Jesus is the hope for the world. And everyone else knows it too.
So when you let Jesus’ character and love shine through you, people can finally see the hope. Then you get the opportunity to connect the hope with their need. It’s a beautiful thing.
Let’s not be scared like the rest of the world. Let’s not get down in the dumps about our nation’s future or the plight of the church. Let’s lift our eyes. Look at the fields. They’re ripe for harvest. (John 4:35)
