A Man Named Jesus

There Was A Man Named Jesus A little over 2000 years ago, a man arrived upon the scene of the world, a man who caused quite a stir with everyone He came into contact with. He was a simple man. He was a wanderer with no home. He was a philosopher, a rebel, and a troublemaker—or was He something more? Many wondered; many followed Him to know more, to witness what He would do next or even simply to be near Him. Thousands were drawn to Him. Did they know why, or were they simply curious? Who was this man? He claimed to be the Son of God. He claimed God sent him here for us, to set us free. Free from what, many wondered? Was it freedom from the tyranny of rulers or to crush our foes? No, this Jesus came to set us free from ourselves, from this world, and ultimately from death. He didn't come to judge; He came to be judged. He didn't come to punish; He came to take on our punishment. He didn't come to destroy rulers and nations; He came to teach us of our Father in heaven and show us the way to peace for eternity. He did not come to bind us in the chains of law; He came to set man free! He took nothing and gave all. He did not require love and obedience but rather taught us of love that leads to obedience. His name was Jesus, and He gave us His all. For centuries, His coming had been foretold. He came just as we were told He would. The prophets of old described Him, spoke of His deeds, and from whose line of which He would come, and it all came true. He was no surprise. He performed miracles that only God could do. He raised the dead, healed the sick, and, most of all, He set the captives free, free from the torment of their evil actions and ways. He brought hope to the hopeless, strength to the weary, peace to the fearful, and joy to the sorrowful. He required little and gave it all! For this He was beaten beyond recognition, tormented and tortured by man, hung upon a tree, humiliated, and left to die. This was how we thanked Him for all He gave, and yet even still He loves us. Why? He loves us because God sent Him to show us love—love that knows no bounds—real and unconditional love. Love that went on to defeat death, not just for Jesus, but for all who would ever believe in and follow Him; a love that would lead to eternal life without pain or sorrow, toil, or anguish—eternal peace. This is love. Do you receive this love? Do you believe, will you believe? Will you be set free from the bondage of failures, pain, and missing the mark? Haven't you made enough mistakes in your life yet? Why not stop now, turn around, and make things right? Come to Jesus! Just as it was foretold of His coming before, it has been foretold He is coming soon to gather those who believe, to give us our reward. Don't miss out. There are no second chances, no more warnings. He is coming soon. Call on Jesus and be set free. Pastor Gene Burroughs, Missio Dei Navarre