Yet To Rise Once

My wife and I went to an improv comedy show last night and had a blast. And as I considered today's post before service this morning, I recalled the closing skit from the show. The power of communication without words is incredible, especially when you are attempting to ascertain what someone is doing or what something means. It's also absolutely hilarious.

It's amazing how quickly the message gets through. Likewise, depending on the circumstance, either laughable or frustrating, if the message takes what seems like forever before the receiver understands what is going on.

So to is the Gospel understood. Sometimes quickly. Other times, after great lengths. Often through the use of words. Perhaps, more often than realize, accomplished without words. The Gospel that shares salvation. Speaks truth. Offers grace. Extends forgiveness. Exposes sin. Loves unconditionally.

For all the effort that we hope and pray will be effective beyond our abilities and imaginations; you truly have to wonder if and when the message misses the mark. It's a sobering thought and rightly so. But it is reality, as uncomfortable as it is to consider. As such, we do indeed, need God's help.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that the message God desires to give to the world, would not get lost in translation through the flawed and broken lives of redeemed sinners. Pray that lives would connect, whereby grace, love, truth and forgiveness is expressed, offered and received in the exchange that is the presentation of the Gospel. May their be a sensitivity and awareness about our lives, that there are people around who are struggling in the darkness as we all once did. While we may still stumble, there are many who have yet figured out how to call to God for assistance in getting back up.

For while we will rise again,
Many have yet to rise once.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC