February 3, 2023

Bob Maas
“We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.”
2 Corinthians 5:20

An ambassador is an authorized representative or messenger. We represent God, and our message is the good news that the human race has been forgiven, once for all, of every sin that has ever been committed. Through the cross God’s justice has been satisfied and He makes it possible for even the most vile person to become a follower of Jesus.

If we are going to be God’s representatives then we must see people through His eyes. He loves everyone and wants them to accept His gift of salvation. God has given us the ability to see hope for people even when it seems impossible. No matter how depraved, discouraged or despairing a person may be, Jesus atonement is freely given as a means of escape from their darkness.

We have the authority to forgive people as long as we have been forgiven. To be forgiven, all we have to do is come into agreement with God about our own depravity and forgive ourselves, just as Jesus has. The evidence that we have forgiven ourselves is found in our ability to forgive others and be one of His ambassadors.