Are you hanging out on the fringes? by Gene McGuire (Saturday, June 30, 2007)

” ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ ” (Jeremiah 29:11) 

 

COMMENT: It is not uncommon to be approached by a panhandler in a parking lot; but the one I encountered the other day was somewhat different from any other I have ever seen. He asked for 50 cents, and when I stared at him in amazement regarding the small sum, he told me: “Honestly sir, I just want to get some wine and I only need 50 cents more.” I don’t know if I was adding to his decline, but because of his honesty I gave him a dollar. I then asked him if he knew Jesus. He searched under his coat and shirt and proudly displayed a cross on a chain around his neck. I then surmised that, probably, Jesus was merely an acquaintance of his, but he didn’t really know Him. Unfortunately, some of us Christians are not unlike my new friend, just “hanging out” on the “fringes” of Christianity. The singing group, The Carpenters, had a song that is so apropos when we talk about our relationship with the Lord: TO KNOW HIM IS TO LOVE HIM. If we know the Lord intimately, we will realize His love for us is unconditional, steadfast and never ceases. With that knowledge, it is impossible not to return His love. (1 John 4:19) Scripture tells us that ”If anyone loves Me (Jesus), he will keep My Word.” (John 14:23) Jesus is the Word of God. (John 1:1) If one does not consistently read the Scriptures, how can one know Him?  Do you know Jesus, or are you just acquainted with Him?

 

SCRIPTURE STUDY: John 14:19-24     

 

WISE SONG LYRICS: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never will come to an end. They are new every morning, new every morning. Great is thy faithfulness O Lord, great is thy faithfulness.