SCRIPTURE: Acts 5:12-16
“…So that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by.” (Acts 5:14)
In many parts of the world, the church is experiencing dramatic growth.
Except for some reason here in North America, and in Europe (except maybe a few pockets).
Many churches are slowly shrinking, or dying, or barely holding on (like my church).
Why is this: lack of faith or prayer? worldly people and worldly churches? western culture resistant to God?
Are we too rational, too self-assured and successful, so that we don’t need faith and miracles and saviours?
All of these reasons have some truth, but I also wonder if we have misunderstood the message of Jesus.
I’m convinced that if Jesus was re-presented in a non-churchy way, people would respond.
A Jesus Who cares, serves, denies Himself and blesses, heals and helps – through us, through our shadow.
If even Peter’s shadow blessed people (or God through his presence), what kind of shadow do we cast?
Are we as ‘sold out’ for Jesus as the first disciples were, willing to sacrifice and suffer to bless others?
If we lived and looked more like Jesus, maybe “more and more men and women might believe in the Lord.”
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, help me to be more like You, so that people can see and experience You through me. Use me to bless, help, heal, serve many, that they may come to You!