What steps can we take to be more like Jesus in our communities? Entering Our Towns with Purpose “Then Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through.” (Luke 19:1) • Jesus does not wait for people to come to Him; He steps into their everyday world. • We mirror this by showing up—at neighborhood meetings, local schools, community events—armed with kindness and the gospel. • John 17:18 reminds us, “As You sent Me into the world, I have sent them into the world.” Our commission is active, not passive. Looking for the One Others Miss • Beyond the city gate, Jesus’ eyes search for Zacchaeus (Luke 19:2-4). • Practice intentional noticing: greet the overlooked coworker, learn the name of the quiet student, value the senior citizen who feels forgotten (Philippians 2:4). Calling People by Name “Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house.” (Luke 19:5) • Personal address dignifies and disarms. • Proverbs 18:21 speaks of life-giving words; a simple “Good morning, Alex” can invite conversation that opens doors to Christ. Crossing Cultural and Social Barriers • Zacchaeus was a despised tax collector; Jesus still entered his home (Luke 19:6-7). • We follow by befriending those outside our comfort zones—immigrants, the addicted, the affluent skeptic (Acts 10:34-35). Offering Grace Before Demands • Jesus extends fellowship first; transformation follows (Luke 19:8-9). • Romans 2:4 affirms that God’s kindness leads to repentance. • Show grace—help with groceries, listen without judgment—then share how Christ’s grace transforms. Inviting Repentance and Restitution • Zacchaeus responds, “Look, Lord, half of my possessions I give to the poor…” (Luke 19:8). • True discipleship includes turning from sin and making wrongs right (Ephesians 4:28). • Encourage practical restitution: apologies offered, debts repaid, relationships restored. Celebrating Salvation Publicly “Today salvation has come to this house…” (Luke 19:9) • Rejoice aloud when lives change; testimonies energize faith communities (Psalm 107:2). • Share stories in gatherings, social media, or over dinner, directing praise to Jesus. Staying Focused on the Mission “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:10) • Keep evangelism central—programs, budgets, and schedules should serve this purpose (Matthew 28:19-20). • Pray for opportunities, train in personal witnessing, and measure ministry success by gospel impact. Practical Next Steps for This Week 1. Walk a street in your town, praying for each household. 2. Invite someone new for coffee; listen to their story. 3. Perform an anonymous act of kindness that meets a tangible need. 4. Share a brief testimony of Christ’s work in you—face-to-face or online. 5. Ask God to show you any restitution you need to make, and act on it. Following Jesus into Jericho-like moments, we become visible carriers of His love, truth, and transforming power right where we live. |
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