Even though we live in a culture that runs from Jesus Christ whenever He's spoken of in a public forum, we still find it newsworthy when a "Jesus sighting" has taken place. Then, people will make pilgrimages to see the image of Christ. This is weird.
I found these images online of recent "Jesus sightings." For most, it's a stretch to see a face that looks like Jesus (and apparently, all these Jesus images look like actors who played Jesus in film or the Eurpoean Jesus as depicted in great works of art.)
Here are some that I referenced yesterday morning. . .
Seriously? Jesus in a piece of candy or on a dirty sock? Some of these look more like E.T. or Charles Manson than Jesus (well, what we think Jesus looked like.)
Some of these items have sold at auction and on eBay for thousands of dollars. Amazing how people will line up to look at everyday objects with just the hope of seeing Jesus.
Desiring to see Jesus is not a bad thing. In fact, even in the Gospel, crowds would gather to see Jesus. Though most were just enamored with his "rock star" status and wanted to see him perform a miracle, there were some who truly came to him as disciples.
Yesterday's message covers the Gospel account of John 12, following the resurrection of Lazarus. The crowds are gathering and they're celebrating Jesus and proclaiming him King of Israel. Yet, even in this story we see the deep calling of Christ that will soon separate the crowd from the congregation.
Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him. John 12:25-26 (ESV)
So, are you willing to do this?
Are you satisfied with being in the crowd, or do you desire to be closer, to be part of His congregation?
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