I’ve noticed since being on The Race that I use the name of Jesus a lot more. Whether it is in normal conversation, teaching English, praying, or speaking in church. I know that might sound odd, but back in America when I talked about GOD, I would refer to “The Lord” or simply “God”.
Being overseas where religions such as Hindu and Islam are primary, talking about “God” can really lose it’s Power and become arbitrary. Lost in translation, so to speak. The life or death difference between god and GOD must be distinguished. So us coming in here and talking about “God”, what’s the big idea?
The difference is JESUS.
In America Jesus is offensive, it’s true. People don’t mind if you say “God” as in, “God be with you. God loves you” or my favorite, “God bless you”. But as soon as you mention Jesus Christ, Son of God, Redeemer and Savior for all mankind, people get uncomfortable.
God makes people feel good. Jesus makes people feel uncomfortable. Jesus always has, always will, and will forever cause controversy on earth due to the battle that wages between the righteous and holy living He calls us to, and the evil that rules the world and our human nature.
Jesus told us in the Bible, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.” John 15:19
I know some people who read this and support me in my trip think what I’m doing is all good and great for the world. But as soon as I talk about the motivation behind every thing I do, the fact that I do all these things to show and tell people Jesus to people in various ways, it gets uncomfortable.
So yeah, I’m sorry not sorry if when I talk about Jesus it offends or makes you feel uncomfortable. And not to be brash, but I’m prepared for that. I challenge you though, when these feelings may arise, ask yourself why and realize that there’s something deeper beyond offense that is at work.
Jesus You are the difference in my life
The joy I cannot hide
Savior I’ll show the world what you have done
And all that I’ve become
I’m not the same!
