2 Corinthians 5:16-21

So, if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation… So, we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.”

It is a very high honor for a person to be appointed as an ambassador for one’s government. It indicates a high level of respect and trust for that person by governing officials. The ambassador will be representing the nation and its government at many high level meetings with Ambassadors from other countries. The ambassador will learn many things considered confidential in nature and other things that need to be shared.

In 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul says we have been appointed by God to be God’s ambassadors: to bring the message that God has done in Christ Jesus all that needs to be done for a full reconciliation to take place between God and the people of God’s world-like us!

So, what does that message look like? It embodies a vision when all of God’s creation will be one. It shows us as people who do not hold a grudge. It demonstrates our walking with “the other”, side by side, with love and joy and humility. It means we serve one another, act with justice, and consider the impact of our decision-making upon the stranger and neighbor.

SONG: “We Are Called” by David Haas (1988) ELW 720

PRAYER:

Thank you God
For birthing us in your image,
Washing and naming us yours in baptism,
Spiriting us through the days and decisions of our youth,
And now inviting us, as we have been served by you
To serve others in your name. Amen