Fields United Methodist Church

Celebrate Jesus!

Pastor Tom Joyce

September 26, 2022

“So he came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; for through him both of us have access in one Spirit to the Father.”

Ephesians 2:17

As I walked along late one afternoon on a beautiful and majestic university campus, I thanked Jesus for the day, for the people along my path and for the opportunity to celebrate this place.  In the center of campus was a chapel which would be a grand place to stop and spend even more time thanking God. To my dismay, there was a sign on the door that said, “do not enter, private worship in progress.” Our faith is not about “private worship,” hanging signs limiting entry, or building barriers to the love of God in Christ Jesus.  Jesus died and on the third day rose that all people may have access to new life and peace that tears down all that hinders our life together, bound by the love of Jesus.  The cross of Jesus tore down those things that divide us, calling all to the reconciling grace that only Jesus can offer. In the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), Jesus did not command us to make disciples only with people that we know, or just people we agree with or judge to be worthy, but called us with one voice to, “make disciples of all nations.” If we are to share the love of God in Jesus, by hanging signs on doors or by our attitude limit access to Jesus, we fail to witness the Good News of Jesus to “every nation.”  Open your heart and share the love of Christ no matter the season and in all places and to all people; in sharing the peace of Christ you will truly be a blessing as you have been blessed.