February 27, 2012 (Numbers 21-23; Mark 6-7)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “So the disciples went out, telling everyone they met to repent of their sins and turn to God.” Mark 6:12 NLT
Observation: Jesus sends out the twelve disciples two by two. He needs to raise some money so He can continue His ministry so He sends the disciples ahead setting up the next spiritual conference in the next town. He puts them in charge of selling the tickets for only $19.95 each! Oh wait, that’s not how it went. Jesus sent the disciple’s out two by two preaching repentance. They proclaimed this message not only to the people who gathered at the local church, but they told it to everyone they met along the way. Repent of your sins and turn to God! That was the message then, and it still is today, and it shouldn’t cost a dime to hear this message from those who have been sent out by Christ.
Application: Somehow over the years the message of repentance has been replaced with the message of “we need you to give so we can continue God’s ministry”. Greed and a distorted interpretation of the scriptures have made fundraising the most important part of church service. In fact, I was once told, “as director, your most important task will be fundraising”. I was shocked and appalled to say the least. We’ve been called to be disciples of Christ and the message He sends us out with is the same, repent of your sins and turn to God! Nowhere in scripture did Christ direct His disciples to “sell the gospel”, in fact He said, “freely you have received, freely give.” It’s time the disciples of Christ get out of the church building begging for money and start telling everyone they see, repent of your sins and turn to God!
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day You’ve made. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me daily. I love You Lord and desire to please You with all of my life. Forgive me for being embarrassed to tell the world, “repent of your sins and turn to God” I know this is the calling You have given me in the purest form. I desire courage and strength from You my Lord, in Jesus name, Amen!