2 Corinthians 5:18 "Now all these things are from God, who
reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of
reconciliation, namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to
Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has
committed to us the word of reconciliation."
Each month I go to Mexico. My friends and I drive to some railroad
tracks southeast of Tijuana, almost to Tecate, taking food, toys,
toiletries, and other items the Lord gives to us. We are inevitably
greeted by a crowd of 100 or so men, women, and children (and scores of
dogs!) with whom we have become acquainted over the years. They are the
poorest of the poor, living in little one-room shanties alongside the
tracks, no water, electricity, or plumbing.
We make a stop in San Ysidro before crossing the border for a very
important task.... exchanging dollars for pesos. We're always hoping
for a good exchange rate so we can get the most for our money.
The term "reconciliation" in the verses above comes out of the Greek
marketplace. it is the word used for exchanging money. In Scripture it
speaks of exchanging something far more valuable than dollars and
pesos. It is exchanging Christ's garment of pure, white, sinlessness
for my filthy, disheveled robe of sin. It's trading my destiny of
eternal punishment for His gift of Eternal Life.
He not only made that "exchange" with me; He also has given me the
privilege of facilitating it with others. That's why we go to Mexico
every month. It's not about providing food and other necessities to
those in need; it's our "ministry of reconciliation" - building
relationships with these people, sharing God's Word, and watching the
Holy Spirit transform their lives! What a privilege and joy it is to be
His ambassador!
Lord, thank You for providing the "ultimate exchange" for me and for
allowing me to share it with others. Please keep it fresh in my mind
today so that, as I interact with those You lead across my path, I will
be ready to offer Your grace to them. Amen.
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