Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea. (Rev. 1:11)
I had just finished preaching one Sunday morning a message on faith and standing firm in difficult times as a Christian when one woman who had been sitting at the back of church listening intently walked up to me after the service. After some pleasantries were exchanged, she respectfully asked me with a broad African smile on her face, “Do you have this message you shared today written formally?”
I responded to her kindheartedly that I did not have a formal copy but indicated that I would be willing to write down one for her. A day or so later I wrote it and sent it to her. A year later, as lockdown restrictions intensified in the midst of a global pandemic, I received a call from the same woman. She shared excitedly with me how the formal written message had been sent around her community to encourage others in their faith.
In a hurting world of pain and suffering, God has given us a wonderful love letter—his Word. It is the message of hope and eternal life. Moreover, we have the responsibility to share this message with others in our families and communities. How intent are you in spreading the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ? Does your heart desire for all to hear and all to be reached?
Remember that you are a sent and living epistle to the nations.
Jim Machuku is an ordained minister, resident pastor at Mc3, and an educator. He is passionate about leadership development in Africa.
© 2022 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
