I was recently scrolling through Facebook (something I’m trying to do less of) when I came across a post about the opening ceremonies at the Summer Olympics. The post showed a picture of what people call a mockery of the Last Supper painting. Many people were highly offended by the opening picture and actions of the Olympic committee. Some said nobody should watch the Olympics in protest. Others said this is offensive to God. As I processed everything that was said I couldn’t help but think about Jesus hanging on the cross. The Gospel of Luke says, “The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, “He saved others; let him save himself if he is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.” The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar and said, “If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself” (Luke 23:35-37). Notice that Jesus did not hurl insults back at the crowd? He did not rebuke them. He simply said, “Father, forgive them.” Jesus did not get mad at those mocking him. He prayed for their forgiveness! If that was Jesus’ response to those mocking him, what should our response be when we feel offended? Were you upset by the post? Use that anger as a springboard for evangelism. Take the time to share what Christianity is truly all about with those around you. We live in a broken and hurting world that needs the truth of the gospel now more than ever! Let us all work together to show the love of Christ that is within us to those around us.
In God’s Grace,
Pastor Dave