A couple of weeks ago the “Passion” aired of Fox TV. It was a live, modern version of the Gospel with contemporary music. Artists like Trisha Yearwood, Tyler Perry, Michael W. Smith, Seal and others portrayed the characters of the story. This was all brought to life on an outdoor stage as a 20 ft. cross was carried through the streets of New Orleans.
The actors involved caught my attention, however I was reluctant as depictions of the passion always bring me to tears due to the violent nature of the story. With reservation, I checked it out. First, it is totally family friendly. Second, it was a new way to bring the Gospel to life and the I will never hear those songs in the same way again. (Click on the Passion above and you can still stream it.)
As the cross was moving toward the stage, Tyler Perry asks the crowd about Jesus returning today. How would we treat him? Would we ignore him or think he is crazy? Would we be running up to take a selfie with him? This really stayed with me. What would I do? In my heart I want to declare that he is the Messiah just as Peter did, but would I?
27 Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked them, “Who do people say I am?”
28 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.”
29 “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”
Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.” (Mark 8:27-29 NIV).
Shortly after Peter declares that Jesus is the Messiah, he denies him three times. Would that be me, caught up in the emotion able to declare my beliefs, but as soon as opposition arises crumble under pressure? Would I be able to stand firm in my convictions and declare He is Lord? I have had many opportunities over the years to share my faith, to be a witness, a testimony. I have to be honest, there were times when I denied my faith. There were times where I could have shared love and grace, but didn’t. Like Peter, I have struggled to let my faith stand out in a crowd. Maybe that’s why the question from Tyler Perry lingers within.
The question really is, “Why do I let fear win?” The only answer I have found is in pursuit of Christ. The stronger my relationship with Him the more I lead with love and grace. I am better able to handle tough situations and speak truth when I am staying close to him. Prayer, worship, scripture all allow me to answer the question would I with a resounding yes. When I wander, so does my yes. I guess I know what needs to be apart of my daily life.
Would you? Do you struggle with answering yes? Are certain situations easier than others? How do you stay close to Him? Share your story here and we can breathe life and bring hope to each other.