Embracing Eternal Hope: A Reflection on Jesus’ Mission and Our Role

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by chaos, stress, and trials. Each week brings its own set of challenges, and sometimes it feels like we’re just trying to keep our heads above water. Yet, amidst this turmoil, we are reminded of a profound truth: we are partakers of a promise that transcends this world. This promise is eternal, anchored in a living hope that perseveres through every trial and tribulation.

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are called to “Be the Change” as Jesus has transformed us. Our mission is rooted in the principles of “Just 3”: Study, Share, and Serve. Through these actions, we aim to embody the love of Christ in our community and beyond. Let’s explore how these principles align with the mission of Jesus as outlined in the recent sermon by Tyler.

A Living Hope in the Midst of Chaos

The Apostle Peter writes in 1 Peter 1:3-4 (NIV), “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you.” This living hope is not just a future promise but a present reality that sustains us through life’s challenges.

God does not intend for us to struggle without purpose; rather, He uses our struggles to refine us and bring about good. Romans 8:28 (NIV) assures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Our trials are not in vain; they are opportunities for growth and transformation.

Jesus’ Mission: A Radical Shift

This message of hope and transformation is beautifully illustrated in the story of Jesus returning to His hometown, as recounted in the Gospel of Luke. When Jesus proclaimed His mission in the synagogue, He announced a radical shift: God was no longer just for the Israelites, but was making Himself available to all people, from all nations. This was a groundbreaking revelation, signaling that the love and grace of God were accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or status.

In Luke 4:18-19 (ESV), Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah, declaring, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” This mission was not just a declaration of His purpose but an invitation for us to join in His work.

Our Role: Study, Share, Serve

At Lakeview, we believe that studying God’s Word is foundational to loving and knowing Him. As we delve into the Scriptures, we gain insight into Jesus’ mission and how it applies to our lives. By studying the Bible, we equip ourselves to live out His teachings and grow in our relationship with God. As 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV) reminds us, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Sharing the good news of Jesus with others is a vital part of our mission. Jesus’ mission was not only to proclaim liberty and healing but also to extend His love and grace to all people. As followers of Christ, we are called to share this message of hope and redemption with those around us. Through our “Just 3” initiative, we encourage everyone to engage in meaningful relationships and share their faith with others. By doing so, we fulfill the Great Commission found in Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV): “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

Serving others is a tangible way to live out our faith. Jesus’ mission involved setting the oppressed free and bringing healing to the brokenhearted. As His followers, we are called to serve those in need and demonstrate His love through our actions. Galatians 5:13 (NIV) encourages us, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

Conclusion: Be the Change

As we embrace the mission of Jesus at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are reminded of the transformative power of His love. Through “Just 3″—Study, Share, and Serve—we seek to be the change in our community and beyond. Let us continue to study God’s Word, share His love with others, and serve those in need, all for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom. Together, we can make a difference as we live out the mission of Jesus in our daily lives.