There is a place for you…

I have been reading through the book of Mark one chapter chunk each day and today I want to share with you one impression that I have received so far.

We all have a place in God’s kingdom.

In Jesus.

With the Holy Spirit.

Friend, there is a place for you. Yes, you.

Jesus took great lengths to share this good news with people that needed to hear this. Even to the point of giving his life for this message. The Kingdom of God is at hand and there is a place for you.

Come, even if people despise your occupation 

Come, even if society considers you unclean

Come, even if you feel you don’t understand

Come, even if you feel unskilled

Come, even if your situation seems impossible

Come, even if you have nothing to give

Come, even if you are injured, sick or disabled

Come, even if you are angry, depressed or grieving

Come, even if you are 5yrs, 20yrs, 50yrs or 99yrs old

Come, even if you are gender confused

Come, even if you think your sin is so big

COME

Now that you know that God has a place for you in His Kingdom, what does He want you to do and be in that place? 

Jesus bought this question up with a question in Mark chapter 4:21

“And He was saying to them, ” A lamp is not brought to be put under a basket, is it, or under a bed? Is it not brought to be put on a lampstand?”ESV

Matthew records it this way…

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to  your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 ESV

In our place, right where we are, our purpose is to shine.

It’s to allow God’s light to flow out from us. To not cover it up and pretend we aren’t believers. It is not to go with the flow of society. 

It’s to shine.

Yes, it takes courage to shine. 

Yes, there will be push back and maybe shunning.

Yes, people will think you are crazy if you speak what God wants you to say in that situation.

Yes, people won’t understand if you say no.

Yes, it feels vulnerable to repent, confess and change.

Yes, it involves war with the flesh and renewing of the mind.

But Jesus said…

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart (courage); I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 ESV