Have you ever encountered a street preacher? What was your experience?

When I was in college there was a guy who called himself “Brother Brown.” He would show up on campus from time to time and yell at anyone who had the misfortune of walking by him.

He considered himself a prophet of sorts who was there to call everyone out about their sin.  He would make wild accusations against people he didn’t know. Some Christians would try to talk to him, but he wasn’t interested. He would just accuse them of some sins just the same.

You’re Condemned!
Maybe you’ve seen someone like Brother Brown. They only seem interested in telling people they are condemned. I never once saw (or heard of) anyone actually repenting or believing due to their interaction with Brother Brown. He was quick to condemn, but I never heard him talk about forgiveness or Jesus’ death and resurrection. 

Jesus Came to Bring Life
If you only heard the Brother Browns of the world, you might think Jesus came to call us out and condemn us. Jesus tells us something different. He says He came not to condemn, but to save.

Yes, we all have sin and we all need to repent, but we repent because of God’s promise of forgiveness and grace. Jesus came to bring us that forgiveness and grace and He accomplished His mission when He died for us and rose again.

That’s a different message than what Brother Brown yelled. It’s the message that Jesus proclaimed. It’s a message each of us can share.

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for coming into the world with grace and mercy rather than condemnation and vengeance. We do not deserve Your love and forgiveness and yet that is what You give. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I trust in Your death and resurrection. Help me to share that message with others.

Amen.