By Lisa Wilmore
My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Lately, I have noticed and paid attention to the mere fact that there are great communications among the believers about Jesus and what He has done for us. Sometimes, it becomes difficult to actively listen because of our desire to share our story and give true authentic praise to the One who saved us.
In addition, on Sunday morning, during midweek service or Bible study, we gather with one purpose in mind. That is, to worship God, learn more about Him, and indulge in what the Spirit says to us. Of course, this time with God is truly phenomenal. However, our focus for this message is to ponder about “What happens on the other side of our church building doors?”
As a point of reference, the gospel writer, Mark, recorded the account of Jesus calming the storm. The familiar story dealt with a raging storm that caused the disciples to be fearful and worried that they would perish. In the meantime, Jesus was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep. The disciples awakened Him, and He (Jesus) “Rebuked the wind and said to the sea, ‘peace be still’” (Mark 4:35-41).
Prior to “rebuking the wind” and “calming the sea”, Jesus had completed his parabolical discourse with the multitude. After such, He said to the disciples “Let us go to the other side”. So, after the teaching of parables, and winding through the raging storm, what was on the other side that needed Jesus’ attention? Interestingly, as we continue to read, in Mark, chapter 5, on the other side of the sea, Jesus got off the ship and immediately, a man with unclean spirits met Him. As he saw Jesus a distance away, he ran to Him and worshipped Him. Of course, Jesus set this man free by casting out the unclean spirits and sending them into the swine (Mark 5:1-17). Yes, my dear friends, Jesus had ministry to do on the other side.
What is lurking or laying on the other side of our church doors that needs our attention? Is there ministry work on the other side of your church door? Of course. Jesus said to His disciples, as He looked at those who were in need, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” Matthew 9:37-38 NIV).
As Jesus knew that there were needs on the other side and traveled to meet those needs, we must recognize that there are great needs on the other side of our church doors, also. Those needs require our mission to extend salvation to others through Jesus Christ.
What is on the other side of your church door? The only way to know is to go to the other side.
