Monday, June 17, 2013

Cheers From The Crowd

I remember growing up playing sports that I was not the best at that I really wanted one thing – cheers from the crowd. Looking back I guess I just wanted someone to tell me I had done good. I wanted it to matter that I showed up. For me, I no longer care about the crowds, but I do care about being encouraged. That happened for me today.

In 1 John 2 we have a series of encouragements to us from John. The words say what it takes to serve God or to be a follower. We have to be like Jesus. As I read this passage this morning, I grieved a little because I know I fall very short of that mark. But as I read on I realized that John was not saying these things to condemn anyone. He was telling us what the mark was and then began to offer encouragement that God will not walk away, and that we can make it. The next time you read this passage, don’t feel condemned. Instead, imagin John on the sidelines, and he is shouting.

“Come on, you can do this thing! I know you can! Go, go, go!!!”

Prayer
Father, I thank You that You hear us. I thank You that You never walk away. I thank You that You are right by our side saying, “You can do this!” We love You. In Jesus name. Amen.