When my mother first took me to church 28 years ago, I had no idea what was in store for me. Since that time I have been to many churches, many denominations and some that “claim” to be non-denominational. Quite honestly, I’m less convinced now of the accuracy of non-denominational. We all have a history and our lives typically reflect that history. It is not my intention to debate or even discuss the aspect of denominations so I digress.
It was the spring of my fourth grade year and my mother took me to the church Easter drama that was very well-known in the community. After that, we went every time the doors were open. I cannot verify the accuracy of that statement, only that it seemed that way to me. sometimes I loved it and sometimes I begged (literally, begged) to not have to go to church. I do not recall the grade that I was allowed to start youth group. Typically that would be 6th or 7th, so I’m guessing it was within a couple of years that I was able to attend. I was very nervous…ok I was scared to death! The day finally came and I went. I don’t remember if anyone talked to me, if I sat alone, if I looked as scared as I felt…I don’t even remember if I went back the next week. I’m sure I did. One thing I do remember, the name.
In this particular denomination the youth groups were all called “CA’s.” CA stands for “Christ’s Ambassadors.” Nope, I had no idea what that even meant. Essentially I signed up to be an ambassador to the King of Kings and yet had no idea what I was doing. admittedly, that feeling comes and goes even today. I am an authorized messenger of the gospel of Jesus Christ! Today’s scripture says the same thing. Paul is writing to the Corinthian church pleading for them to be reconciled to God through Jesus. He tells them that “they” Paul and his disciples (missionaries) are Ambassadors of Christ and have been authorized to share the good news.
I am an Ambassador of Jesus Christ. If you are a follower of Christ…YOU are an Ambassador of Jesus Christ! Overwhelmed and humbled, I accept this call and pray you do as well. Even with all my faults, failures, issues and any other name you want to give it…SIN, God still has called me and charged me, not with sin, but with being an authorized representative of the One True God! What a journey this has bee and will be. I’m glad you are joining me. Let’s be ambassadors together so the world may be reconciled to the God…THE God!
Lenten Blessings,
Chuck
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