Is it You?

Sunday, December 7, 2014                                                                   Luke 7:28-35

Chris Shurden

  

What would you expect if Jesus was coming to town? It’s not hard to imagine that people were looking for someone wearing a fancy robe, surrounded by the most respected and highly regarded members of the community.   In the text (Luke 7), John the Baptist sends his disciples to ask Jesus, “Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?”  Jesus performed miracles and instructed the disciples to tell John what they had seen.  His actions provided a clear answer to John’s question: he was the one the world was waiting for.

In current day Nashville, I might have had the same question.  Some would have expected Jesus to occupy the biggest residence in the best area of town, dine at the finest restaurants, and hang out with the best and brightest people that Nashville has to offer.  Instead, it seems more likely that Jesus would have been spending time with the homeless on the streets of Nashville and disenfranchised in the poorest areas of our city.  If I had heard about this, I would have had the same question. 

In the text from Luke, Jesus speaks about the least becoming the highest in the eyes of God.  The family of God is made up people from all corners of society - the rich, the poor, the respected and the outcast. We can take comfort in knowing that we are all God’s children. We can all experience God’s grace without concern as to whether or not others think we are worthy or deserving.   

Prayer:  Dear God, thank you for having as part of your family.  In this season of Advent, please continue to help us make Westminster a welcoming Church, knowing that showing others your love strengthens your kingdom.

Daily Challenge:  Look for the promise of Jesus in a place that you wouldn’t expect it.