Decisions on the border

“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.”(Hebrews 4:7)

I live in Southern California. The border with Mexico is not far away. You can drive your car down to the border, park, and walk right across into Mexico. You can learn lots of things about Mexico from the U.S. side of the border. You can taste the food, hear the language, and see Mexican people. But, at some point, if you really want to know what it’s like in Mexico, you must cross the border and venture all the way into that different land.

I often think of the process of becoming a follower of Jesus as the crossing of the border. There is much you can learn about what it means to be a Christian by visiting a church, by reading a Bible, by hanging out in Christian circles. But this can also be like standing in San Diego and looking through the fence at life in Tijuana. At some point you have done enough window shopping. You have learned as much as you can from the other side of the border. You need to cross the border into the land of faith. there are things you need to learn about Jesus which you can only learn there.

I think it is good if we pause here. After considering the claims of Christ, it is a good idea to see how they apply to your own situation. have you realized that your life is totaled? Have you sensed you can’t fix the feeling of emptiness you have in your heart? maybe you are trying to pile up a mountain of good deeds in the hopes that you will be able to “earn” God’s favor. Are you ready to step into the land of faith? You can do that right now by saying yes to Jesus:

“God, I know that you are real and that you know and love me.

I believe you have a plan for my life.

I am finished running away in rebellion and fighting against you.

I’m turning to you and asking for your forgiveness and your salvation.

I want to experience new life as your follower and servant.

I know Jesus’ death and resurrection provides all of this for me.

I commit myself to serving you, but am going to need your help.

I ask you to be my Savior.

In the name of Jesus. Amen.”

If you have prayed a prayer like this with sincerity, and have committed your belief in the “good news” … welcome home! Through faith you now have a relationship with Jesus Christ. Congratulations, it is a decision you will never regret!