Trouble

 

“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” - Matthew 5:11-12

Uh, this passage is about one of the promises of the gospel.  One that most trusters and followers of Jesus have to admit is true, but also one we’d rather sweep under the rug.  Here’s a reality.  If you are a Christian (more than just in name only), expect trouble to follow.  You won’t have to look for it, if you are his, trouble will find you.

Being a follower of Christ means going against the flow of society. Sometimes stubbornly.  Seems like that is truer these days, but I’m not all that sure.  Being a Christ-ian will mean that you will have to take some very unpopular stands.  And doing so may sting a little bit.  And oh, it will mean taking stands that at times will tick off the left and the right.

Being a Christian will mean that you will have a little more eternal view of things; some of the temporary passions and possessions that we cherish, well, should tarnish quicker. Being a Christian will mean that sin will break your heart over and over again, especially the sin you commit. Especially.

Being a Christian is about eternal life, blessings, truth, and…trouble.  And when you find that trouble, Jesus says, “Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven….”

If you find that trouble, it means you are doing something right! And you will get something right!

May your day be filled with…trouble.  Uh, and the other wonderful promises of the gospel.