Good messengers needed ... global & local

Prov. 25:13 – “Like the coolness of snow at harvest time is a trustworthy messenger to those who send him; he refreshes the spirit of his masters.”(NIV)

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Did you know that you are a messenger? After Jesus had risen from the dead he spoke to his disciples and told them: "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.”

At Cypress Church we take this command of our Lord seriously. We understand that each Christian is a messenger of Jesus Christ. Our purpose statement ends with these words “… reaching … OUT … with the life changing message of Jesus.” The word “reaching” speaks about doing something on purpose and the word “out” means beyond the walls of Cypress Church. So … “reaching out” means intentionally sharing Jesus with others in our local community, cross-culturally and globally.

OK this sounds great on paper but how do we, each one of us, individually … put shoes on this concept of “reaching …. out …. with the life changing message of Jesus?”

Here are some practical ideas: Invite your neighbors to church or to join your small group. Be part of our Outreach Team at the Cypress Community Festival. Join one of our missions teams to Ecuador, India or Mexico.

Another idea is to start a neighborhood Bible study using materials like “The Truth Project” or “Choose The Life.” Organize a yard sale on your block. Make sure you have some pamphlets or flyers on the tables. Strike up conversations with your neighbors about the new Bible study that is starting at your house next week. Ask them to join you.

Does it take courage to do something like that? Yes it does. In essence you are like a soldier in enemy territory. When the children of Israel were getting ready to cross the Jordan River and take possession of the Promised Land they knew that there were enemies ahead and they were afraid. Moses told them. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." They crossed the Jordan and they were able to take possession of every place they went when they looked to the Lord for guidance.

When you open your Bible today ask the Holy Spirit to show you exactly what He wants you to do to take possession of your neighborhood for Jesus Christ. You are a royal ambassador with a message to the world from King Jesus. You speak with authority given to you by God.

The Apostle Paul understood his responsibility to share Jesus. He said: “I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” He also recognized that the Lord has rewards in store for his trustworthy messengers. If we allow ourselves to be used as God’s tools to build His Kingdom then we can look forward to a time in the future when Jesus will say: “Well done, good and faithful servant! …Come and share your master's happiness!”