047 Monday, February 16, 2009

047 Numbers 001 – 002; Hebrews 013

This promise from God is about people and the land. They are not in the land as of yet, but the people are having to get ready. They are organizing, preparing for battle, and getting a feel for what it means to be together and yet separate as a tribe. These people are one day going to be a country. It is this nation that is to uphold the name of Yahweh. They are to be salt and light for the other nations. Don't forget they had been in slavery for 430 years. They had been bossed around and cared for; in other words institutionalized. Now they have to lead and be ready to fight for themselves. Perhaps, God is preparing you for a new ministry. God is doing something in your life now because the Lord has a new way He wants to use you.

We are witnessing the building of the community, of the nation of Israel. In the book of Hebrews these words are written for the community of faith for today, "Stay on good terms with each other, held together by love." Let it sink in how we as followers of Christ are to view people that are marginalized in our society. Here is one, "Regard prisoners as if you were in prison with them." That is one for the books.

Let me highlight what I believe to be an interesting way to talk about witnessing. The author says, "So let's go outside, where Jesus is, where the action is---not trying to be privileged insiders, but taking our share in the abuse of Jesus. This "insider world" is not our home." What a great way to view how we are to be salt and light. Let's be willing to take some heat for Jesus. Let's risk some friendships, some reputations, let’s be willing to take some abuse. Who are talking to this weekend?