“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, certain that God is appealing through us. We plead on Christ’s behalf, ‘Be reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20.

Recently Southern Baptist missionaries found themselves in grave danger-

-when the government of an African country was overthrown.

Anarchy prevailed as security evaporated.

Foreigners were targets of bandits and rampaging mobs.

The missionaries were rescued and evacuated-

– when the American ambassador negotiated a truce between the warring factions.

Because he represented the authority and resources of the United States-

– he was able to leverage the international reputation and influence of our country,

– not by personal power but by whom he represented.

God yearns for the whole world to be rescued from the bondage of sin and has provided for their salvation.

But when Jesus returned to heaven, having shed His blood in redemption for a lost world-

He appointed us as His ambassadors!

We are to be His representatives to bring people out of the chaos and hopelessness of sin into the kingdom of God.

Our personal power doesn’t intervene and reconcile people to God-

– but because we represent His authority and power to save, redemption is possible.

“Father, may I faithfully represent You in this lost world. Amen.”

(PA)