Guest writer: Doug Kegarise, Pastor of Development and Deployment
I was able to get a few moments alone this morning and was reading in Ephesians 4, where Paul begins by saying ‘As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.’ Any other morning, this may not have struck me the same.
But this morning, I met 2 men who have been prisoners because they were sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. One spent 48 days in prison, nearly dying.
They probably decided to quit preaching, huh? Nope. They are both here at a pastoral training seminar, learning how to be even more effective as evangelists and teachers. That is inspiring. That is convicting.
Paul reminds the church at Ephesus of their calling. He’s not talking to pastors, he’s talking to all who claim the name of Jesus Christ. And he challenges them to life a life worthy of that calling.
I can’t help but think about my own life. I claim the name of Jesus. I call myself a Christian. But am I living my life in a manner worthy of the name of Jesus and of the calling on my life as one who has been redeemed by His great grace? Or do I simply claim His benefits and disregard, and disrespect His name.
My life has been void of the kind of challenges and heartache that these pastors in Asia have faced. How much more should I be living in a manner worthy of the calling? They have to make life-altering decisions on a regular basis. The words that they speak can cost them dearly. They face incredible suffering. But they are committed to Jesus, and living life in light of His call.
What about you? Are you living a life worthy of the calling you have received? What would you be willing to sacrifice in order to do so? (Sidenote: Ephesians 4-5 offer some practical ideas if you need a great place to jumpstart your commitment today).
And what about our brothers and sisters who are suffering for the gospel around the world? How is God calling you to be involved?
Let’s magnify the name of Jesus together today, in word and in deed, for He alone is worthy of our praise!
Guest writer: Doug Kegarise, Pastor of Development and Deployment
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