He is Why

Crossroads.  Junctions.  Intersections.

Call it what you will, but each is referencing those big life moments where "from this point on, things were never the same."

Our current series at church titled,"Changed Life...Changed Community...Changed World," is exploring these turning-point moments, most notably Jesus's triumph over death and how it literally changed everything.  When he conquered death, he paved a way for every person to have an intimate, personal relationship with his father.  His ultimate sacrifice allows me to sit here on my patio smiling because I know a freedom that is rooted entirely in grace and mercy.  My Father loves me, has always loved me, and will always love me.  My limited human experience will never fully appreciate or understand the gravity of that statement.  And I don't have to.  I just know it's true.

Jesus describes in Matthew 16:13-19 how nothing will be able to stop his church, his mission in having every person know the freedom that comes with God's grace and love.  In Acts 1:8, he describes how his church will spread first to "Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."  2000 years later, and his promise hold true.  His church has spread to the ends of the earth.  I am living proof of that.

Today's service talked about Stephen, a preacher who accused the Jews of persecuting Jesus.  He is ultimately stoned to death for his sermon.  Upon seeing this, believers scattered. To where?  Judea and Samaria, ultimately fulfilling Jesus's own promise about how his church will spread.

Our God is so masterful.  He equipped Stephen to be exactly who He needed him to be.  Eloquence, intelligence, and position- all used so that one day, he could deliver this pivotal, life- changing sermon.  Stephen's death was for His purpose of spreading the great news of Jesus.

So here I am, thinking about God's purpose for each of us.  I am reminded of a quote that states, "The purpose of my life is far greater than my own personal fulfillment, peace of mind, or even my happiness.  It is far greater than my own family, career, or wildest dreams.  I was born BY His purpose FOR His purpose" (Beth Moore).

Stephen was wonderfully and intricately crafted by God to be used by God.

And I'm realizing, so am I.  He has entrusted me with this small amount of time on earth to live abundantly, fearlessly, and effectively.  My geographical location in the world, my passions, my disposition, my career choice- are all a part of God's plan. So it is with this in mind that I ask, "God...what do you want to do today? And how can I be a part of it?"