“Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.” [Matthew 7:20]
I sit across from three young women, new to me and to the discipleship class. Not your usual class in the warmth of home or church building…this was the county jail.
The love of God reaches out as each in turn tell their story…oh yes, “I am a Christian” they say and space is given for them to testify of some moment in the past when they said yes to Jesus Christ. Yet here they sit, fruit of a life lived for self and governed by addiction!
The lesson this day is taken from the parable of the wise and foolish virgins (Matthew 25). They all thought they were safe but the power of the Word reveals the truth. Half of them were not ready and the door was finally shut in their faces. I glance up from reading and see eyes swimming with tears, not from fear of rejection but reality that they are the foolish ones. This is the God moment when the Holy Spirit takes over and turns hearts to repentance and reconciliation.
Why share this with you? Because many sit in the place of thinking they are prepared and ready yet they have no oil and without oil there is no power to bring forth fruit unto righteousness. The heart that is dry regardless of the words of the mouth has no light to shine and no passion to witness. According to the words of Jesus half of those waiting to celebrate the marriage supper of the Lamb—are not ready—and will not gain entrance! Make sure you are ready this morning. Time is short, we cannot beat around the bush. Turn and repent, receive times of refreshing!
Diane Hale for the past 30 years has served as evangelist, trainer, teacher, mentor, and consultant for churches of many denominations. www.uniquebydesign.org
April’s Rooted in Christ theme is Peace
Reading God’s Story Schedule today, 4/12/13: Psalm 35, Psalm 63, Psalm 18.
4/13/13: I Samuel 28-31, I Chronicles 10.
4/14/13: Psalm 121, Psalm 123, Psalm 124, Psalm 125, Psalm 128, Psalm 129, Psalm 130.
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