Random Thanksgiving images. Lots of togetherness, 21 people, amazing food. So thankful to be here!
“You almost persuade me to become a Christian.” Acts 26:28
Sad words spoken by King Herod Agrippa, sitting there in power, next to his sister, whom he was rumored to have an incestuous relationship with. Knowing the family, it was probably true. He was in high places. Next to him was governor Festus who loudly ridiculed Paul: “Paul, you are beside yourself! Much learning is driving you mad!” (Acts 26:24) Before them, a man in Roman custody, yet freer than any of them. Paul had the opportunity to give his defense in front of these high officials; he used it as an opportunity to talk about Jesus.
Almost a Christian. Agrippa might have said the words mockingly, but his tone and intent don’t matter. Many are almost Christians.
This is straight from Jesus, his desire. “…to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.” (Acts 26:18 NIV) That was Paul’s mission, received from Jesus after his Damascus road experience.
The gospel isn’t about an angry God. You can sue someone for defamation of character, and if there’s anyone who has been defamed, slandered, and misrepresented, it’s Jesus. He’s not reluctant to save, hoping you don’t ask since he really just came for “the good people.”
“For God so loved the world…” Love sent Jesus. Love propels everything he does. He’s endlessly patient with us and full of that famous, amazing grace. There isn’t a mold a Christian must fit into, but I think that’s one thing that also keeps people from Jesus. Agrippa probably preferred to be associated with the high Roman officials rather than this passionate prisoner in front of them, yet history shows us believers in all sorts of places and positions. There’s no mold, no one-size-fits-all. I’m again thinking of the tightrope walker, Nik Wallenda, who crossed Grand Canyon a few years ago. He was fitted with a microphone, and you could hear him praying and praising God throughout his precarious walk without a safety net. Life with Jesus is boring only if we make it so.