The Cross-Shaped Life

"We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God." 
2 Corinthians 5:20 (NIV)

When you walk into a room, what do people notice first about you? Your success? Your struggles? Your complaints?

Think about the way an ambassador carries the authority and character of the country they represent. When they speak, their homeland speaks. When they act, their nation's values shine through. In this verse, the Apostle Paul declares that you are Christ's ambassador, His personal representative on earth.

This means your life carries the weight of heaven's message. You can live the cross-shaped life. You don't just represent yourself anymore; you represent Jesus. 

Every conversation becomes an opportunity to display His grace. Every time you respond to difficulty, you can reveal His peace. Every act of kindness can demonstrate His love.

Because Christ has already reconciled you to God completely, you're not trying to earn God's approval. You're living from the abundance of approval you already have and offer that abundance to others. 

When financial pressure hits, instead of panicking, you pray, "God, you've promised to provide—help me trust you right now." When someone hurts you, you can choose forgiveness because that's who Christ made you to be. Allow your cross-shaped life to point others to the One who loves them completely.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for making me your ambassador. Help me represent you well in every conversation and decision today. Show me how to point others to your love. Amen.