How would you do it?

Hello, ya'll!

I've been thinking about this for a while now. How would you introduce Jesus to a stranger? We are supposed to (and I say that talking to myself most of all) introduce Jesus each and every day to those around us with and without using words. The best way is without words because, after all, actions speak louder than words. ;-)

Some churches decide to make a big show out of it. It's like P.T. Barnum's circus has come to town each and every Sunday and there are three rings announcing "Step right up, ladies and gentlemen! Jesus will be entertaining you today. In ring number one, you will see the light show! In ring number two, you will see the offering basket to throw your money; and for your convenience, we now accept all major credit cards and ebt! In ring number three is the man himself...J-E-S-U-S!!!" Is that a good introduction to Jesus? Would you want to hang out with this version of him?

Then, in other churches, Jesus isn't even "present". The people just go through the motions of worship and once the hour long service is completed, Sunday "penance" is paid, and life goes on as usual. In the street outside of the church building the members of the congregation cut each other off in traffic and at the restaurant where they eat lunch, a tip isn't even left for the server that worked so hard to keep the glasses full of sweet tea and coke. What about this version of Jesus? Would you be proud to introduce him to your mother or best friend?

In all seriousness, there seem to be two major poles in religious circles regarding the presentation of Jesus and I have given an oversimplified version of each of them. He's either a circus attraction to fleece money from the congregation or he's a part of a rude bunch of people that believe as long as they go to church on Sundays, they're "all good". How wrong can they be?

Why not introduce Jesus to the world for who and what he is? He is Jesus Christ, born in Nazareth, carpenter by trade, fisherman by hobby, and son of God most high. Jesus is the King of kings. Jesus was friends with those that most looked at as outcasts or nobodies. Think about it! Jesus hung out with hookers, IRS agents (tax collectors), rough and tumble fishermen with bad tempers and salty language, and -gasp- gentiles! No self respecting person gave these individuals the time of day much less ATE with them or spent hours upon hours with them. Jesus was more than a self respecting individual though!

He knew these people inside and out and LOVED them for who they were and where they were in their lives. Did he need a light show or three rings to get attention? NO. Was he rude to those that served him? NO. Jesus served! Why not try a little of that attitude ourselves? Love people for who they are and where they are in life. Remember that no one stays in the same place forever. You certainly won't! Life is an ever changing current that takes us in many different directions and there are many different seasons to life. It's never really boring is it?

The comedian Steve Harvey once did an introduction to Jesus. It was amazingly beautiful and although it was from a stage, there was no circus act. Mr. Harvey was stating fact after fact about Jesus Christ, son of God. If I had to introduce Jesus with words, it would be a little different. Obviously, I am not Steve Harvey. :-)

I would introduce Jesus as a friend. He loves unconditionally. He is with you even when you feel all alone. Jesus is a healer, a comforter, a trusted companion that will never betray you or your innermost secrets. He is a wonderful listener. Jesus is a provider. He provides all needs and most wants (if they are in his father's will for your life). Jesus is not a cruel person that plays tricks or mocks you. He is the most intense person that you will ever get to know. Most importantly, he WANTS to get to know you and you him. A relationship with Jesus will be the most beautiful that you have ever had in your life. There is none like it; there is none like Jesus. He is closer than a parent, sibling, best friend, or lover. Jesus is everything.

Think about how you would do it. How would you introduce Jesus?

-the Busy Bee