I stand in the elevator, bent over, my weary head hung down, eyes to the floor. I hear the voice of a stranger say, "This probably seems random but can you tell me what is the gospel of Jesus Christ?"
"Sure. Your question gets at part of the answer. This gospel or good news centers on a king whose name is Jesus and the way his birth, life, death, resurrection, ascension and rule changes everything."
"If he's a king, does that mean he has a kingdom?"
"It does. It's been around forever but in his first coming into this world, Jesus brought his kingdom closer than ever before so that we have greater access to the king and to the different way of living that he offers."
"Is this that John 3:16 verse I always hear about?"
"It is but don't misunderstand. Eternal life doesn't mean that this life Jesus invites us into only starts when we die or Jesus comes back. Part of the good of the good news is that this life starts now. So that means we can be transformed by this life right now."
"Wow. Such a life must have tons of perks with it."
"Blessings all mine with ten thousand beside. Forgiveness of sin, adoption as sons and daughters, assurance of God's love, peace of conscience, increase of grace. The list goes on and on. But you know what is perhaps the greatest part of this new life that is on offer in this kingdom?"
"No. What?"
"This new way of living is a life that we get to share with the Triune God. We are actually invited to participate in the loving fellowship of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. And again, not at some future date, but right here, right now."
"That is incredible. And it never ends?"
"Never. It is indestructible."
"What do I have to do to get this new kind of life? I bet I have to do a lot or give a lot or make a big sacrifice or something."
"Nope. All you have to do is trust."
"Trust? That's it?"
"Yep. Trust in Jesus the king and it all opens up for you."
"It looks like you need to do some trusting."
"What?" I said. I lift my head. No one is in the elevator with me. And I realize. I am the stranger.
