Monday August 7

Scripture
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. Behold, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s trespasses against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. (2 Corinthians 5:17-19 NIV)

Focus
As family that is reconciled to Christ and one another, we are called to go and to be like Him.  We are to be Christ-like image bearers, crossing racial, denominational, generational and political barriers to be part of something bigger than ourselves. Scripture tells us that all will know we are Christ followers by our love (John 13:35).  We must love with the love of Christ; it’s the only way we can help others find hope in Christ.  We are God’s messengers of reconciliation in both word and testimony.

Prayer
Thank you, Father for reconciling us to You.  Now we ask that You cause us to walk in reconciliation and Christlikeness, crossing racial, denominational, generational and political barriers to be part of Your plan, which is so much bigger than ourselves. Soften our hearts so we will love with the love of Christ; so that others will not only hear about Jesus but see Him in our actions. You have given us the ministry of reconciliation, now work in us so that our will conforms to Yours so we will joyfully go and share your message with a hurting and divided people. Holy Spirit we ask you to guide us, even today, into actions that share Your love. In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen

Tangible Expression of Our Prayers
Today, listen to the Lord as He prompts you to demonstrate the love of Christ for the lost around you. Opportunities are all around us for simple acts of kindness that impact lives for Christ. Be intentional today in seeking ways to demonstrate God’s love.  The Lord may ask you to pay for someone’s groceries, help someone in need, give someone a hug and let them know they are loved, pray for someone, invite someone to church, forgive someone…Be observant, there are many ways you can act like Christ today.