Laser Focus (John 5:22-28)

It's been a year ago yesterday that my sister, Peggy, crossed over from this life, to her eternal life with Jesus. Sometimes it seems like a few days ago and other times it seems so long ago. Life sure can be mysterious. We have our tangible lifes and we have the Bible to help us navigate the mystery. I always need to remember God is all we need, and He has blessed us with what we NEED to know, but not ALL THERE IS to know. But, I know that I want to live life to the fullest, and in His name. It's the only way! God has blessed Peggy's precious family so much. God has given them a great year and has transitioned them to their new life without Peggy. I am sure Peggy is very proud.

As for this blog, I have been blessed over the past year to be posting through the Book of John. I have a deeper understanding of the life of Jesus and the challenges He faced here in this dark world. The trouble He faced compares well to issues we can and will face in our lives. My plan, if God allows me to, is to continue a trek through John with several posts per month. I know Peggy would be proud that her Blog lives on, but she would want to make sure if God has called me to do it. And for now, I feel God has given me the passion and ability to continue.

So moving forward in the Book of John 5: 22-28 and focusing on v. 24..."Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgement, but has passed from death into life."

The image here shows a laser in focus. It is so concentrated that is cuts a hard surface with precision. It also illuminates the subject. Christ continues to exectute God's plan with the precision. Someone with a hard unyeilding heart can either be improved by the light or can resist the light and follow a path to distruction.

Jesus continues His discussion with his opposition with laser focus. He is showing God's plan. At this point, some might be thinking He is for real or a complete lunatic! Jesus isn't concerned about what they will think of Him, but I know He hopes they will listen and follow Him. But, many who have heard Him would not believe and they would continue their carnal death walk to Judgement Day. Christ is making an appeal to accept or reject him. The light Jesus brings into the world will shed exposure to their ugly fallen ways and also light a path to forgiveness, redemption with God and eternal life! Jesus is confronting His enemies while at the same time masterfully reaching out to them!

At times when we share our faith, it will be conveyed to those strongly opposed to it. But with a delivery of confidence, balanced with gentleness and respect, those who God calls.... will consider what you have to say and be saved. Those listening to our reasoning for Christ may utilize our acclaim to take steps closer to know God. They may listen with respect or they may be very rude. But in any event, we need to share when called upon to do so and make no apology for who we are in Christ. Be confident of who you are as a follower of Jesus, but share your faith with the respect.

Lord, expose us to settings where we are challenged to share our faith. Give us the words, the confidence and gentleness to convey what you want us to say. Amen.