This is why every year I look for a new perspective... something that I've either forgotten and need to remember, or something I need to discover.
This year is no exception. As a pastor, I've been frustrated that I can't fully see the fruit of everything I'm doing. I've been serving people within all the limits around me, including the strengths and hurdles of online ministry. That means that even when I work really hard to put something quality out that people may not share with me about its impact. Or, they may treat it like entertainment to critique versus inspiration to take in.
I get it. I'm human and have those same temptations.
And so maybe that's why this Easter I'm drawn to three words that Jesus said before He died: Three words that can change your life, too.
- He said this without everyone in front of Him having placed their trust in Him.
- He said this while being misunderstood.
- He said this without seeing what His efforts would produce.
- He said this even though his disciples give into their own discouragement in the moment.
- He said this, after having been fully faithful Himself anyway.
You can do two things with those 3 words:
1) Receive "it is finished" as a gift.
That's the spirit of what He meant. And it's a joy you're invited into. It's Easter, and if you haven't yet placed your faith in the One who died on the Cross for you, why not today? Why not now? Pray and receive Him into your life beyond your traditions... it's one thing to believe, and another thing to receive. Right now, pray this:
Pray: Yes, Jesus. I choose to begin a relationship with You - the One who loves me and died on the Cross for my sins. And Who rose for me to show me that you truly are my Savior and Lord. Come into my life, and help me come into You. In Your Name, Jesus, I pray, Amen.
2) Live "it is finished" as a release.
There is freedom in doing what you know you "can" do without knowing how it "will" play out. It's called faithfulness... which always flows best out of that personal relationship with Jesus Christ - the "author" and "finisher" of our faith, who endured the Cross and trusting in the joy on the other side of it.
You're not going to be able to know if everything your doing in life is having the impact you hope it does, but you can keep doing those things. Because you really are in a place of influence, perhaps now more than ever before. Make the most of every opportunity, even if you're not sure if it's doing any good.
Because it is. It absolutely is.
"How?" you may ask.
Hmm. Perhaps I could say more, or try to list it out for you, but that's up to you to look for and see. As for me, "it is finished." :)
#ThereIsHope
P.S. My son and I compacted our full book into a 31-day highlight version that we're giving away for FREE! If you or a friend are looking for some hope, find that download here through our publisher. It's our gift to YOU!
