I’m a “fan” AND “follower” of Jesus! I not only admit it – I’m prepared to proclaim it! In fact, I’ve devoted my life, to the best of my ability and His enablement, to doing it daily!
In the “gospels” in the Bible (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) there periodically are places that serve as summaries of the life and ministry of Jesus. I read one such summary this morning during my time of “coffee with the Lord”… It’s located in a strategic place – at the end of Matthew 4 and just before “the Sermon on the Mount” in Matthew 5. Here’s what the “summary” records about Jesus…
“And Jesus went throughout all of Galilee, teaching in their synagogues [places of study and worship] and proclaiming the gospel of the Kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people. His fame spread throughout all Syria, and they brought to Him all the sick, those afflicted with various diseases and pains, those oppressed by demons, epileptics, and paralytics, and He healed them! And great crowds followed Him!” (Matthew 4:23-25 ESV)
Hey, what’s not to like about a guy like that – the “God-man” – Jesus Christ! He not only announced the coming of the “Kingdom of Heaven” – His life and ministry demonstrated it! Nothing was too hard for Him! And Hebrews in the Bible declares that “He is the same, yesterday, today and forever!” (Hebrews 13:8) His “Kingdom message” (check out the chapters that follow – Matthew 5-7) would transform the world if embraced and followed by those who claim to be His followers. His invitation – His call (more like a summons) to follow Him is powerful (read the passage before this one – Matthew 4:17-22)! But if you respond to His call, your life is forever changed – and for the better! Following Him beats following any political leader or celebrity “all hollow!” It’s the trail that results in life-transformation and ultimately leads you to “eternal life!”
I’m so glad that I said “yes” to Him when I heard His call deep in my heart! The trail has not always been easy, but He’s been right there with me all the way! I’d decide to follow Him all over again! Don’t you sense Him calling you? Seems to me, it would be a great way to begin 2021! Why not join me on the journey? What an adventure!!!
Coffee With The Lord 