Our Scripture meditation is based on 1 Corinthians 5:20, from next week’s Epistle Reading.
[20] Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
The Epistle Reading for next week might catch you off guard, given this is a season of Lent. Since the passage focuses on sharing Jesus with the world, if feels more like a reading for the season of Epiphany. Yet it still connects with Lent.
What a privilege, to be called “ambassadors for Christ.” God chooses to include us in His Mission to see all come to faith in Jesus. How is this possible? As well as we know our sinful nature, God has even greater knowledge of that nature. Yet as God’s redeemed people, our Lord works through us to redeem even more people. As we are told in Romans chapter 17, faith comes through hearing and hearing through the Word of Christ.
The tie-in to Lent comes in the second half of our verse. We’re implored to be reconciled to God. This is a reference to our sins. Our sins can get in the way of our witness for Christ. People might discredit our message because of the messenger. This is why the Apostle Paul teaches us in Colossians 4:5-6.
[5] Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. [6] Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.
Lent is a season of repentance. This passage shows us yet another reason to repent. It can allow our neighbor can focus more on Jesus, and less on us, when we speak of the Savior.
Kevin Wilson 360 