And then he (Jesus)) told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.” (Mark 16:15 NLT)
I recently attended a hockey game on Students’ Day. The 4000-seat arena was filled with school kids grades 1-8, and they showed up ready to enjoy this day away from books. From the moment the first note left the sound booth, the students sang and danced and didn’t stop. They responded to every sound coming out of the speakers. Three thoughts crossed my mind during the game:
1. It might be an early night for parents, as these kids were going to be exhausted;
2. Teachers are saints; and
3. Do they know Jesus?
We all agree that fewer children, teens, young adults and even young families are seen on Sunday mornings in church. The world has found a way to convince many that church isn’t necessary, but filling their every waking moment with a quick entertainment fix is essential to understanding and surviving in this generation. If we spend hours distracted by our phones (for example), we don’t have time to reflect on our lives, families, and blessings. We respond to the world around us like robots: wake up, check messages, watch a few videos, prep for the day, head to wherever with our faces buried in our phones, and repeat. Sadly, this routine is not unique to our youth (even though the technology distraction is starting at a younger age). It has even affected all generations. No one seemed to think it necessary to make eye contact, flash a smile or even mutter hello. Too many are preoccupied with the latest tweet or don’t know how to socialize anymore. And this is not going to change.
God has invited all of Christ’s followers to join His mission to let the world know He is good all the time. He desires us to turn from the evil that seeks to separate us from a full life as well as an eternal life with God. He wants to use His followers as ambassadors to those around us to let them know the creator of all that was, is, and will be, loves them. He doesn’t want anyone left behind (2 Peter 3:9). So, what can we do to be true ambassadors of the truth? Do we email our pastor and let him know that many lost children need to hear about Jesus’ word and that maybe he should step up his efforts to evangelize? Or do we reflect on what we can do?
As my wife and I drove home from the game, we commented, “Do they know Jesus?”. The kids were having a great time being kids, and it was fun to watch. But we know they will grow up, face a challenging world, and need the peace, love, joy, and hope that Jesus offers, but don’t even know it’s available. Who will tell our children, neighbours, family and friends?
You can. Prepare yourself for your Christmas gathering and then offer to tell the story of Jesus. Maybe take some notes as your pastor talks about the Advent blessings and share them. But start the conversation – you have all the information you need to be Christ’s ambassador, so tell your world.
“So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.” Romans 10:17