“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek.” – Romans 1:16

Yesterday I watched an Instagram video from one of my favorite actors. He made the video for a young boy who is suffering from a serious illness. This actor is well-known for being a very nice guy, and the video was a sweet gesture. However, as I watched the video, it was clear that he had nothing of substance to offer. He said things like, “I’m sending all my love, I’m sending all my strength, and I’m sending you all my thoughts.” That sounds nice, but essentially it doesn’t really amount to anything. Basically, all he has to offer is, “I am really famous, so here’s a 46-second video to make you feel better.”

Brothers and sisters, we have something to offer that little boy! And not just him; we have something to offer the mother who is at the end of her rope, the man who just got laid off from the only job he’s ever known, the high school student who is struggling to know who they are, or the couple who is on the edge of divorce. We have real hope to offer anyone who is afraid, depressed, or hurting. You have so much more to offer than any famous actor or athlete. All you have to do is have the strength to stand up and proclaim it. Don’t ever let your fear of what others might think stop you from bringing the eternal hope of Jesus Christ into the lives of people who so desperately need him.

Heavenly Father, destroy any reservations we may have about sharing Jesus with those who are lost, confused, and hurting. Fill us with great confidence and joy to bring the Good News of perfect hope to all those around us.

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Shane Cannon