Life on Life

“Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him. 'We have found the Messiah' (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus”.  - John 1:40-41

The most significant impact that you will have with people in life are generally with those you know best. We are most effective in our Life in Mission when we are engaged life on life. In our Bible passage the first thing Andrew did when he heard about Jesus was to go tell his brother and bring him to Jesus, life on life.

Many of you may or may not know that I spend a good deal of time working/playing with and mentoring high school youth here at BLC. This involves Sunday morning Bible study, Wednesday nights, retreats, summer trips, mission trips (like Peru) and even just hanging out. During these times we have opportunities to talk about Jesus, our faith, our life, etc. The goal is meaningful relationship and through relationship impact.

I remember a time a few years back when one of our high school kids got in trouble with the police and school for some hijinx with his car. His parents were quite upset and he was facing some disciplinary actions at school. He was very distraught and anxious about the situation. Because of my life on life relationship with him I was able to take him for a ride in the truck and talk. I was able to assure him of God’s love most especially when we screw up. (Jesus gives us a do-over all the time). This helped to give him some perspective and calm his heart. To this day he remembers that time with gratitude. I was only able to do this because I was in relationship with him life on life. People don’t care what you know til they know how much you care. Get involved with others life on life and when the opportunity arises, and it will, point them to Jesus! Now that’s some real Life in Mission!

Benevolent Father, help us to be in relationship with others, especially those who don’t know you, that by knowing them I might become your instrument in sharing Jesus. Amen.