We were woken up this morning to the sound of helicopters flying overhead. Just a few blocks away, a man had been making explosives, bombs, and robbing banks. When trying to send a robot in to search for other bombs, it couldn't maneuver due to clutter, so the bomb squad will be setting fire to the house tomorrow, under the guidance of the fire department. And many precautions are being taken, as no one knows for sure what is in the house. And it seems weird, almost scary, that someone a few streets away, that I may have seen in the store or passed in traffic, can be so evil. But I find that although I know who my neighbors are, I really don't know them, or them me.
I was reminded last night, and have been for a few years now, how difficult and misunderstood you are when taking a stand for Christ. Obeying the spirit can be hazardous to old relationships, careers, and even families. But staying close to God in these attacks, is still the best place to be. And He has to change the hearts of those attacking, and yours, too, or you will always be at odds with them. Three choices-your way, their way, or the correct answer-God's way! I still choose God's way.
When Jesus formed His gang, He chose 12 itinerant, Jewish citizens. Twelve men who outside of Him, really had not much in common. But in Him, they had all things in common. Andy, Pete, and two guys named Jim, Jack, Matt, Phil,Tommy, Bart, Thad, Simon, and a guy from Carriot, Judas. Fisherman, anarchists, tax collectors, and a businessman-sounds like my biker friends, these men followed by faith a man who they knew little about, but who was to change the world. And despite giving up their careers, friends, and sometimes family to follow, devoted themselves to Jesus, and even after His death carried on the work He had given them to do. And all, except Judas, were martyred, being boiled in oil, flayed-skinned alive, beheaded, crucified, or stoned. Judas, who ratted out Jesus, took his own life, hanging himself from a tree, that the branch broke on and spilled out his guts. But the eleven who were loyal to Jesus had a name that only He could call them. He called them friends. He even called Judas His friend until the end, but Judas refused.
Don't refuse Jesus' friendship today. It will cost something, maybe only a change of your lifestyle, but maybe your job or old friends. But what He removes, He also replaces, and it is not a fair trade. You get much more returned than you ever gave up. And carry it with you into eternity, and for eternity.
Today the friends may be questioning your ways. They don't get it why you changed, or are changing. Your family may not get it, and want to disown you, or just call you a nut. Just as God changes your life, He can change theirs, too. It takes just a little faith, and He will do it. A little trust, and He can show you. And just a little obedience, and you can being the trip of a lifetime.
Don't expect understanding, or even support. Those can only be found in Jesus. His gang of 12 entered in faith, and their actions continue to change the world. But it is only in the spirit,and following Jesus that this can be done. His will, not yours. His will, not your friends. Take the first step today, and watch as joy replaces confusion, and purpose replaces that empty feeling. God knows, and He knows you. It took only 12 men, will you join with them? Can He call you friend?
You never know who your neighbor is. Our neighborhood is a good example of that. What goes on inside doesn't always show on the outside. Let the light of God shine out from you today, in whatever neighborhood you happen to be in. Preach the word daily, and if needed use words.
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com
