what's your best Jesus story?
we were driving home from Tahoe a few days ago and our kids love it when we ask a series of questions that have to do with favorites and memories and ‘who’s most likely to…!” they like to make predictions about each other and it can get highly competitive and personal quick!
i’ll put a spin on it with you - what’s the best story you’ve got personally with Jesus? another way i can ask is: what has Jesus made possible in your life? when was that moment you needed help and you knew it was Him who provided? after you think about it, here’s the follow up question: have you ever gotten to share this memory with someone?
you know this already, but every human being around us is looking hard for things that will take the pain away, that will make them happy again, that will change the circumstances they are in.
and while i can’t fully comprehend or explain it, i choose to accept this responsibility - Jesus shows up in our moments, He is working in our lives, and He’s most likely to use me and you to help with the pain, the happy, and the circumstances in the lives of our friends, family, and fellow citizens.
it’s what i keep discovering since we called San Francisco home 10.5 years ago and it’s what you keep telling me since you started loving where you live and telling your Jesus stories!
Love Where You Live has always been Jesus’ story of how He can use every single one of us. I’m humbled to be one He chooses to use.
In 3 years, almost 7,500 books have been sold!
You have decided to stay and get planted where you live because of what God said to you through this book.
You are delivering meals and hosting gatherings in your home.
You have been inspired to do Cookies and Cocoa, to be the hub in your neighborhood, and to not let fear nor the pandemic keep you from loving those around you.
Military families are some of the top readers of this book and they are known to leave the book behind for the next service family who moves in.
The book is on fire in Chile as pastors and leaders are implementing its lifestyle among new church plants!
Neighborhood bookstores are kind to keep it stocked on their shelves and use it to prompt supporting local businesses.
From coast to coast, real estate agents have been known to gift it to their clients.
Global Neighborhood Prayer Walks are taking place all over the world in cul-de-sacs and along dirt roads.
Over 200 churches and groups have led the Love Where You Live Course.
Live Sent Weekends are happening in communities through the local church!
And my favorites are when you tell me how you helped a stranger, how only a few showed up, how you had to change your plans and you didn’t give up! You are my best Jesus story!
I was privileged to speak at my home church, Epic SF, this past Sunday and I’ve asked the Holy Spirit if He would use it to speak to you as well.
There’s a better way to go. There’s a better thing to have. There’s a better way to live! Let’s look at Mark 6:7-13;30.