This month in Haiti, I cannot say that there have been lots of lessons learned in the physical labor itself that we have found ourselves doing. But, through some of my own reading, thinking, and prayer, God has really laid a lot on my heart regarding being lights within the world. That we should not be separating from the rest of it through our thoughts, words, and actions, but instead engage it and plant ourselves directly in those areas that need the most light. In fact, Jesus himself prayed for this before he was crucified. John 15:17 – "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one." I think he’d look at the Christian sub-culture that we’ve created today, shake his head, and say, “It’s not supposed to be this way.”
On our way back from Jacmel, in the midst of trying not to throw up from motion sickness, my mind wandered into thinking the approach that Jesus would likely take were he physically present here today. I’d like to share what resulted in that.
My Jesus. My Jesus is not just confined to four walls and a steeple.
Nor the weekly Bible study or worship service.
My Jesus does not live a life of “us versus them.”
Living in a Christian bubble where one’s faith is never challenged or put to the test.
My Jesus would not be found on the front lines.
Picketing and protesting the latest book, movie, music cd, or law that offends our Christian sensibilities.
My Jesus does not sit there condemning others or in judgment of them.
Those who are alcoholics, divorcees, criminals, porn addicts, or heaven forbid they listen to hard rock music.
My Jesus is not quick to judge others based on appearance, dress, tattoos, or piercings.
Rather He knows the frivolity of such things, and that it is the state of the heart that matters.
My Jesus would probably leave his WWJD bracelet and “Life Saver” t-shirt at home.
Choosing instead to let His life, actions, and own words speak for the faith He has.
My Jesus lives in the world and engages the world.
Instead of hiding away in fear of being offended or because of feelings of self righteousness.
My Jesus does not spend His time hanging out in Christian coffee shops.
Rather He’s in the houses of prostitutes, the jail cells of convicts, and the streets of the homeless.
My Jesus tells us that whether we choose to leave someplace or not, He is staying.
Particularly in those uncomfortable situations and places that have the greatest need for Light.
My Jesus, were He physically here today, would live out a faith that is fearless.
Do you?
