“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now He is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” Hebrews 12: 1-2
I started thinking and praying about this scripture and writing this blog earlier in the week and had every intention of talking about the things that can “slow us down” physically like the clothes we wear or the lack of conditioning or the elements. I also thought I might talk about the emotional struggles in life and how they can derail us or take our focus from The One who has all of the answers.
But, last night my sister contacted me and told me that over the weekend our mom had had a minor stroke! And in that moment, none of the other stuff I was thinking about writing today really mattered. You see, although my mom has been a very “good” person and even though she has been very “religious” taking us to mass as kids, I do not know if she has ever truly accepted Christ as her personal Lord and Savior. I have often prayed for her and talked to her about it, but still do not have that assurance of seeing her again in eternity.
At this point, it appears that she will make a full recover, but we are awaiting test results and to hear from the doctors. It is during a time like this when you get down to “brass tacks” and start really thinking about what is REALLY important. Of course, I also start thinking things like, I was supposed to call them this weekend and let it slip by without doing so, but that’s probably a topic for another day. The ONLY thing that REALLY matters in this life is … have you made Christ Lord of your life. The attached picture is out of the Billy Graham Christian Workers Handbook and I love the graphic representations. I don’t believe there is a certain prayer or words you have to recite, but need only to do four things to receive Christ:
1) ADMIT your spiritual need. “I am a sinner.”
2) REPENT and be willing to turn from your sin.
3) BELIEVE that Jesus Christ died FOR YOU on the cross.
4) RECEIVE, through prayer, Jesus Christ into your heart and life.
Don’t spend another day without having done this and pray continuously for those you know who still need to. Father, give us the boldness to reach those who don’t know you!
Barnabas Man 