On the inside looking out

I could write for hours tonight, but I realize only my Mom would read it, and I also have a ton of homework to do and a test tomorrow. I just got back from having a talk with my friend Rebecca*. She is a freshman that reminds me way too much of another freshman I once knew.

Being a Christ-follower in today's world means we're often going to feel like outsiders (not in the S.E. Hinton classic sort of way). We are called to be different and many times it is painfully obvious just how different we are. Lately my heart has been continually broken as I meet more and more students who are searching for life and meaning and purpose, and I have realized that I am not on the outside; they are.

As followers of Christ we are insiders to the greatest love in the history of the world. We've got what everyone is searching for. Christ entrusted eleven men with spreading this to the world, and 2000 years later it's our calling and priviledge to continue to spread it. How do we do that? We love people. On the night before he was killed, Jesus told his disciples to love one another, and to love others as he has loved us.

Let's get back to Rebecca. She is searching for life, and for love, and she doesn't know where to look. Tonight I pointed her in the right direction. It may take a while, I pray not too long, but I want her on the inside, and so does God. I have hope for her, but what breaks my heart is knowing there are a half-million Rebeccas crying themselves to sleep tonight in my city, and 10 million more across Mexico. How many live in your town? How many do you talk to everyday?

We've been entrusted with a gift. We've been called to spread the love. Who do you need to love today? Who is your Rebecca? Open the door for someone on the outside. Shine the light. Show the love. There's plenty of room up in here.

*Names have been changed to protect the guilty