Whac-A-Mole: Universalism — Friday
2 Peter 3:9
The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. (NLT)
I recently heard about a statement made by a celebrity who just passed away. Admittedly, I don’t know much about what this person believed in God, but the fruit produced out of their life and work stood mostly in contrast to the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit through someone submitted to the Father. The celebrity was quoted as saying, “If I make it to Heaven, we’re all going to end up there!” Universalism is the belief that we will all essentially end up in Heaven, or somewhere. There’s no need to be concerned about being eternally separate from God, if there is one, and this notion that God’s justice will be served.
This week's devotional topic has caused me to think again about those I know who have not yet chosen to follow Jesus. One guy in particular comes to mind. I’ve prayed for him for many years. He was a bartender and server at a local restaurant. After our first, random, interaction when he was my server, I felt prompted to frequent that restaurant in order to stay in touch. He learned pretty quickly that I was a pastor and seemed to trust me, sharing information about challenges in his life. After about a decade, he still hasn’t decided to take me up on my invitation to church. But I keep praying, and checking on him. And he reaches out from time to time when he needs some encouragement.
How often are you a “fool” at church? What I mean is, how often have you been left waiting in the lobby for someone you invited who didn’t show up? If that hasn’t happened for awhile, maybe consider taking a risk and inviting someone you know who doesn’t know Jesus the way you do.
Friday’s Reflection
My prayer this week is that we all have a renewed sense of urgency for the lost. The Bible says that God desires for everyone to repent. Do we?
