Reality

2nd Corinthians 2:14-20
Everywhere we turn we come across a "Reality" show; American Idol, Survivor, Jershey Shore, Housewives, etc. Have you ever stood back and wondered what kind of reality these people live in? Seriously, we should be keeping these souls before the throne if it really is their reality. I truly thank God it is not my reality.
Today's reading is all about reality; the reality of our use and impact on the world. Verse 15 reminds us that to this world we are the reality, the physical manifestation of Jesus Christ. To the world, we are the only Christ this world is likely to see. It begs to be asked, when our neighbors, friends, co-workers or anyone who looks at us, do they see Jesus? That last guest that came to church to visit, did they see Christ worshiping with you? Were they feeling the Love? How I wish we were all reborn with a stamp on our foreheads that says "Property of Jesus", sort of like the one on those sports shirts. Unfortunately (or fortunately) we are not. ALL that the world has to judge the reality of our claims as Christians is our lives. A wise man once told me that friends may not except the Bible in imitation leather or real leather, but they have no choice when it comes in shoe leather. They pay attention to the things we do or do not do, but not as much as they are scrutinizing our faithful breath to breath existence, the true reality of Jesus in our lives. Can they see Jesus? The scripture says if Christ is lifted up, he will draw all people to himself (John 12:32). Does the reality of Christ in our lives draw others to Christ? What is the fragrance that draws them? It is Love.Love for others, Love for our brothers and sisters in Christ and most importantly, our love for God. We are allowing others to be a part of an amazing love affair. One as old as time. He loved us first, we love him and others in return (1st JOhn 4:19). The love that is shed liberally in our hearts is the reality they see. Let his love light shine forth so Jesus can draw others to himself. Let us pray:
Lord you are Love, Love made into flesh and Blood. Love that fills the hearts of your children. Lord God, we lift you high amoung all nations. We allow your glory to shine on all of those we come across. You draw them. Lord keep us and our short comings out of the way. As the old song says, "And they will know we are Christians by our love." We never knew true love before you. Thank you. In Jesus' name, Amen.