Monday, July 25, 2011

Where Is Jesus?

“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. -- John 15:5

What does Jesus look like to you? If He were walking down the street today would you recognize Him? Where do you think He would hang out? What do you think Jesus would be doing if He were walking the earth today?

Some people see Jesus preaching to the masses. He might be. But Jesus didn’t seem to so much preach as much as teach. He told us how to live, how to love, how to treat other people -- especially those we otherwise would ignore or look down upon.

I’d like to think that Jesus would show up in Washington and clear the area of self-serving elected officials, who are more interested in money and power than doing what’s right. You know. Like He did with the money changes in the temple area. (Matthew 21:12)

I believe Jesus would be feeding the poor and asking pointed questions about those of us who claim to love Him but ignore or judge those in need. He wouldn’t demand drug tests or berate the needy with humiliating questions. Instead, I think Jesus would offer mercy and then expect those who received His mercy to change their lives because of it.

I believe Jesus would be healing the sick and asking why, in a country with so many hospitals and doctors, we only provide medical care to those who have enough money for it. I suspect He would demand to know why we don’t willing share with those who are sick but can‘t affair medical care.

I believe Jesus would gather the little children to Him, holding them close and telling them how much He loves them. I think He would condemn those who harm children. I also think He would berate those who are too busy with their jobs and activities to really listen to their children and spend time with those precious little ones. What could be more valuable that time with your children, I imagine He would ask.

Where would Jesus be if He were walking the earth today? He would be hanging out with the poor and down-trodden. He would be healing the sick and sitting under the overpass with the homeless. He would be with the drug addict desperate for a different way and the pregnant teen with no where to turn. He would be visiting the lonely in the nursing homes and giving the overwhelmed single mother a much-needed break.

My true disciples produce much fruit. This brings great glory to my Father.”

-- John 15:8

What are you doing today?