We are ambassadors for Christ

"Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God." 2 Corinthians 5:20 ESV

To say I was flattered when Jennie from Midwest Endurance Race Company announced my Ambassadorship via social media to promote their inaugural Mile 0 Flint Hills Trail Race yesterday would be an understatement. "We would like to welcome Melissa Martinez as our 50k Ambassador! I first met her at my very first ultra event a few years ago. She is an inspiration to all she encounters. You can follow her on her blog at thejoyfilledrunner.blogspot.com. Melissa is an ultra runner, running coach, blogger and someone who is passionate about helping others reach their finish line!!! We are honored to have you!" To understand why this was such an honor, consider that the definition of an ambassador is a person who acts as a representative or promoter of a specified activity or entity. Which means that such entity would, after careful consideration, choose the person that they think would best promote, represent, speak for, and act on their behalf. See now why it's quite an honor?

 

And you know, when it comes to being an ambassador, the Bible tells us that every believer is a representative of Jesus Christ tasked with the ministry of reconciling others to God in the same way that Christ reconciled us to Himself. "Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us." Which means that we, on behalf of Christ, must implore the lost to be "reconciled to God." Something we do with our lips and with our lives. You see, you and I are called to promote, represent, speak for and act on behalf of the One that we serve--a task that we should take very seriously and a position we should feel honored to hold. 

So knowing that we are "ambassadors for Christ," let us live worthy of the prestigious title by speaking and acting in ways that will not only implore the lost to "be reconciled to God" but will bring honor and glory to His Name. This won't be an easy job, I can assure you, since it requires paying utmost attention to the way we walk and talk, but it will be worth it when we see the lost come to know Jesus.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we are Your ambassadors everywhere we go. Help us to truly understand what this means so that we might represent You in ways that will lead the lost to the foot of the Cross and bring You glory. Give us the strength, wisdom, discernment and courage to boldly serve You as we are called and to unashamedly witness to those in need of hearing the Good News. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!