Speaking on the message, “LIFTING UP JESUS”, Bishop Mwalili said that Jesus was lifted up on the Cross through crucifixion where His passion for the world was revealed. He was lifted up from the grave and lifted up to heaven. Believers have a responsibility of lifting up Jesus to the unbelieving world. They are called to be witnesses of Jesus, “in Jerusalem, all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the world” (Act 1:8). Believers are also called to influence by being the salt and the light of the world; where there is light, there will be no darkness (Matthew 5:13). Believers will reveal the lifted-up Jesus by being an Epistle- an open letter that is read by all at home, church, offices, or in our businesses. Witnessing through lifestyle is profoundly effective.

Many people around the world are struggling due to the effect of drought, economic crisis, sickness, etc., and there is a need to lend a helping hand now, more than ever before. Giving to causes that support the needy is one way of witnessing to the Lord, who has given us freely. The Bible reminds us that, “Freely you have received, freely give” (Matthew 10:8).  The Lord, loves and gives us more than we can think or imagine. He is faithful and will give us more as we witness through giving. Let us remember that, “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord and he will reward them for what they have done” (Proverbs 19:17) and further, “Whoever shuts their eyes to the cry of the poor will also cry out and will not be answered” (Proverbs 21:13).

Application

  1. How have you been a witness of God’s goodness and faithfulness to yourself, your family, and others through your lifestyle?
  2. How have you responded to opportunities to witness to others in your community through, for example, giving your time, capacity, and resources?
  3. Take time to reflect on how can you be more intentional in your witnessing

Prayer.

Lord Jesus, I desire to lift You up and magnify You through my lifestyle. Help me, I pray. Amen