In my sermon on January 22 I stated that evangelism at its core is simply an invitation, Come and see. That thought was grounded in John 1:43-46 where Philip invites Nathanael to come follow Jesus. When Nathanael hesitates from uncertainty about who Jesus is, Philip simply says, Come and see.

I went on in that sermon to mention the things Jesus brings to humanity which is worth everyone coming and seeing. I stated four things.  

1. He brings assurance that God loves us and wants to forgive us.
2. He offers a roadmap for living in peace and harmony with others.
3. He provides a pathway of compassionate service which brings meaning and fulfillment that cannot be found anywhere else.
4. He presents the unwavering truth that God is with us to strengthen us and empower us along the ups and downs of life.  

The longer I live the more convinced I become that in Jesus we truly do have the incarnation of God; the essence of what God intends for humanity and for this world. I can say that without any need to impose him on others or denigrate other religious traditions. Nothing is less like Jesus than condemning traditions or beliefs which differ from him and his teachings. We have every right and every need to invite persons of all cultures, traditions, and perspectives "to come and see" but we should do that without any hint of condemnation or arrogance. If he is as appealing in his life, teachings, and God-likeness as we claim, then we should trust our witness to plant the seeds of conviction and belief and not have to rely on oppressive evangelism.

In a few weeks we will be entering the season of Lent - on Ash Wednesday, February 22. I will begin that night a series titled On The Road With Jesus. It will continue through Easter Sunday morning. Each of the sermons will focus on a particular scenario in Jesus' life and the lessons contained therein. I hope as you learn of the texts, you will immerse yourself more fully into the life and teachings of this one who clearly must be Lord of our lives!