The Black Eyes of Jesus
I am writing outside of Gunnison in Almont. My niece arranged for us to stay in a large home where she has worked during her years here in college. This home is part of a resort that is located near Taylor Reservoir. Allyson Porter (my sister’s oldest daughter) graduates from Western State Colorado University tomorrow.
Debbie was not able to make it at the last moment because of patient issues and concern over the weather. My brother flew in from California and picked up my mom and then met Debbie and me for the trip here. We actually made good time and the weather was good, although the forecast is iffy for the next few days.
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…
“…What you’re doing is wrong. Shouldn’t you live in the fear of our God to keep our enemies from ridiculing us”. Nehemiah 5:9
When I saw this verse from Nehemiah I thought of the words of Nathan the prophet to David when he sinned with Bathsheba. “You have given the enemies of God an occasion to blaspheme.” 2 Samuel 12:14
The idea is when the people of a God live like the world around them God is the one whose name and character is demeaned. A high profile Christian is arrested for a DUI. A scandal involving money or relationships. I recall in my early years of ministry my pastoral mentor referring to these situations as the “black eyes of Jesus.” Christians mess up and Jesus gets attacked.
The enemies of a God look for occasion for an “I told you so” or to say “that is why I don’t go to church or am not a Christian. Not that those attitudes or excuses serve as a “get out of hell free card” but they do bring confusion to people in the process of their journey to Christ. It is not helpful to rely on “Christians are not perfect, just forgiven.” While that is true, it is confusing if it looks like I can be a saint on Sunday and a sinner the rest of the week.
It is important for those who follow Christ, to make it their aim to live like Christ and to represent Him faithfully through their lives. Perfection is not required, but diligence is. I like the way our Pastor ends worship service. His “benediction” is “remember the service begins now!”