Ambassadors

Whenever you pass through immigration in a foreign country there are always multiple crowded lines.  Some specifically for national citizens, some for foreign passport holders, and some for Ambassadors.  I always look for the shortest line in the foreign passport holder line.  One that seems to be moving right along.  There is still generally quite a long wait.  I always look longingly at the “Ambassador” line as that is usually almost empty. 

An ambassador is a country’s highest‑ranking diplomatic representative abroad, responsible for standing for national interests, negotiating with foreign governments, protecting citizens, and managing an embassy. They have a lot of authority and respect as they travel around representing their home country. They are officials representatives who have authority to speak on behalf of their sender.

But when I see the sign “Ambassadors”, I think back to when I joined the church youth group, “Youth Ambassadors”, as a teenager. I had to memorize a lot of Bible verses before I was allowed to officially join.  What was called the “Romans Road”. A series of verses that explained the plan of salvation and your need for it.  Also, one of the verses was: 

“Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.”  2 Corinthians 5:20.

I am always tempted to jump right over to that Ambassador line.  The Bible says I am an ambassador and I am entering the country on the “King’s” business (mission work). I am representing my King and His Kingdom.  It only seems right to me. Occasionally, while I keep such a close eye on that line, the immigration officer will wave a few people over and I always jump right in line. It all feels so right to me!   

According to Paul’s words we are heavenly delegates – “ambassadors” who have been sent as heaven’s representatives to this earth. We may speak and act on behalf of God.  So, we are to explain what God says in the Bible and act out what He instructs us.  This is why we help provide food, clothing, education, and medical care to less fortunate people in various nations around the world. People’s hearts are opened to the gospel message as we show love, compassion, and genuine concern for their daily needs.  

Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, you have a vital role in being one who takes part in the increase of God’s Kingdom.  You too are an ambassador every day wherever you are.  You are God’s representative to the world around you and you are to be demonstrating the reality of God’s Kingdom – love, peace and joy. 

“For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness, peace, and joy  in the Holy Spirit. Whoever serves Christ in this way is acceptable to God and approved by men.”  Romans 14:17-18

Don’t ever think that you are unimportant to the plan of God where you live. You are an ambassador!You represent Jesus Christ to your family, to your place of employment, and to your neighborhood. You have been invested with royal powers, including the name of Jesus and the authority of His blood. So, wherever you go today and whatever you do, remember the One you are representing. You may call upon heaven’s resources to help you.

In what ways can you represent Jesus where you live and work?