JESUS AMIGO DE PECADORES

Jesús: Amigo de Pecadores / Marcos 2:13-17

 

“Salió otra vez junto al mar, y toda la gente venía a él, y les enseñaba.”

  • Para Cristo, la enseñanza era importante porque la Palabra de Dios es importante.

 

  • Las COSAS que eran importantes para Cristo, deben ser importantes para nosotros (enseñar, predicar el Evangelio a los perdidos).

 

(v. 14-16) “Y pasando, vio a Leví, hijo de Alfeo, sentado en el lugar del cobro de los impuestos, y le dijo: Sígueme. Y levantándose, le siguió. Y aconteció que estando Jesús sentado a la mesa en casa de Leví, muchos publicanos y pecadores estaban comiendo juntamente con Jesús y sus discípulos; porque había muchos de ellos que le seguían. Y viendo los escribas de los fariseos que comía con los publicanos y pecadores, dijeron a sus discípulos: ¿Por qué come y bebe con los publicanos y pecadores?

  • Las PERSONAS que eran importantes para Cristo, deben ser importantes para nosotros.

 

(v. 17) “Y al oírlo Jesús, les dijo: No son los sanos los que necesitan médico, sino los enfermos; no vine a llamar a justos, sino a pecadores.”

  • Como seguidores de Cristo, debemos seguir el ejemplo de Cristo.

 

Notas Adicionales:

El pasaje resalta la disposición de Jesús de relacionarse con y aceptar a aquellos considerados marginados por la sociedad, como los recaudadores de impuestos y los pecadores. Aunque esto presenta desafíos para algunos, es un patrón claro en el ministerio de Cristo, por lo tanto, debemos imitar al Maestro en su enfoque.

Las acciones de Jesús desafiaron a las autoridades religiosas de la época, quienes creían que no debía asociarse con tales personas. A veces, los evangélicos fríos y legalistas pueden ser nuestros peores críticos. Cuando lleguen las críticas, debemos estar decididos a ser servidores de Cristo, no servidores de hombres. Cristo fue criticado y calumniado a menudo. ¿Pensaste que sería diferente para nosotros?

El mensaje de Jesús es de compasión y comprensión para aquellos que están atrapados en su pecado, y un llamado al arrepentimiento y la transformación a través de la fe en Él.

Estamos llamados a seguir el ejemplo de Jesús extendiendo la compasión en expresiones tangibles del amor de Dios a los necesitados y la esperanza a través del Evangelio a los marginados de la sociedad, sin condonar su pecado y sus comportamientos destructivos.

Conclusión:

Jesús, en su ministerio, demostró un amor radical e invitó a los pecadores, extendiéndoles amistad a pesar de sus transgresiones. Este mensaje nos desafía a seguir Su ejemplo, extendiendo compasión y comprensión a los marginados de la sociedad, sin condonar sus comportamientos destructivos. La gracia y la compasión que Jesús ofreció a los más odiados y marginados de la sociedad fueron escandalosas entonces, y lo siguen siendo ahora.

Las personas que se criaron en la iglesia y en hogares cristianos toda su vida, con poco conocimiento del “mundo” o la “calle”, naturalmente temerán estos contextos hasta cierto punto. Y tal vez por buenas razones, ¡hay una guerra en curso y esto no es un juego!

Sin embargo, si no eres lo suficientemente valiente para correr riesgos por el Señor, probablemente nunca harás nada grandioso por Su causa. La autoconservación es un obstáculo para el Evangelio. Sal de las cuatro paredes de tu edificio y sal de tu zona de confort. No seas imprudente de ninguna manera, pero tampoco seas cobarde. Ora.

“Porque si predico el evangelio, no tengo por qué gloriarme, pues estoy bajo necesidad; porque ¡ay de mí si no predico el evangelio!”– 1 Corintios 9:16

JESUS A FRIEND OF SINNERS

  • Jesus: A Friend of Sinners / Mark 2:13-17
  • “And again he went out by the sea, and all the crowd came to him, and He was teaching them.”
  • For Christ, teaching was important because the Word of God is important
  • The THINGS that were important to Christ, should be important to us (teaching, preaching the Gospel to the lost)

(v. 14-16) And as he passed by, he saw Levi, the son of Alphaeus, sitting at the tax office, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he got up and followed him. And it came to pass that as Jesus was reclining at table in Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with Jesus and his disciples, for there were many of them who followed him. And when the scribes of the Pharisees saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors, they said to his disciples, ‘Why does he eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?

 

  • The PEOPLE who were important to Christ should be important to us

 

(v. 17) And when Jesus heard it, he said to them, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”

  • As followers of Christ, we must follow Christ’s example

 

Additional Notes:

  • The passage highlights Jesus’ willingness to associate with and accept those considered outcasts by society, such as tax collectors and sinners. Although this presents its challenges for some, it is a clear pattern in the ministry of Christ, therefore we ought to imitate the Master in His approach.

 

  • Jesus’ actions challenged the religious authorities of the time, who believed that he should not associate with such people. Sometimes, cold and legalistic evangelicals can be our worst critics. When the critics come, we must be set on being servants of Christ, not servants of men. Christ was often criticized and slandered. Did you think it would be different for us?

 

  • Jesus’ message is one of compassion and understanding for those who are trapped in their sin, and a call to repentance and transformation through faith in Him.

 

  • We are called to follow Jesus’ example by extending compassion in tangible expressions of God’s love to those in need, and hope through the Gospel to those on the margins of society, without condoning their sin and destructive behaviors.

 

Conclusion:

Jesus, in his ministry, demonstrated radical love and invited sinners, extending friendship despite their transgressions. This message challenges us to follow His example, extending compassion and understanding to those on the margins of society, without condoning their destructive behaviors. The grace and compassion that Jesus offered to the most hated and outcasted of society was scandalous then, and is scandalous now.

People who were raised in church and in Christian homes all of their lives with little knowledge of the “world” or the “streets” will naturally fear these contexts to some extent. And perhaps for some good reasons, there is a war going on out there and this is not a game!

Yet, If you aren’t bold enough to take risks for the Lord, you will probably never do anything great for His sake. Self-preservation is a hindrance to the Gospel. Get out of the four walls of your building and out of your comfort zone. Don’t be foolish by any means, but don’t be cowardly either. Pray.

 

For if I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, because I am compelled to preach—and woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!
– 1 Corinthians 9:16

 

Written by Antonio Salgado

 

 

Please pray for our BCMS workers serving faithfully in hard places. May the Gospel continue to go forth, to God be the glory.

 

If the Lord so lies on your heart to give back to Him by supporting this ministry, you can easily donate online through PayPal. Click the donate button below to send support of any amount directly to the ministry. This is the fastest option to get funds to the mission field.

 

 

 

 

Also,

CENTRAL MISSIONARY CLEARINGHOUSE
P.O. Box 219228
Houston, Texas 77218-9228
1-800-CMC-PRAY (1-800-262-7729)
Office: 281-599-7411
Fax: 281-599-7511
You may begin sending your support to BCMS/Antonio Salgado at any time at the address above. (Checks should be made payable to Central Missionary Clearinghouse or C.M.C.)
You can also now give to the ministry online through the new giving solution called “click and give” at the CMC website. To get started, you just need to click on the link below and register the first time. Just a simple click on the donate button on their page (see link below), and then click the “click and give icon/button”.

 

https://www.cmcmissions.org/donate

 

For tax exemption, you must send your donation through Central Missionary Clearinghouse (CMC) at the address above. PayPal option is the fastest way to get funds directly to the field in case of emergencies. We do not use a sending agency that gets a percentage of the money donated, so you can be sure that your gift goes directly to the mission field. Whatever you decide, thank you so much for praying for us. Grace and peace.

BCMS MISSION UPDATE

Dear friends, mission partners, brothers and sisters in Christ. The following is an update from the mission field by BCMS worker, brother Rafael Rodriguez. Please continue to pray for our Project PG and our present and future mission endeavors.

 

“Greetings, dear brothers and sisters.

Here’s a report on some of our recent activities, all done for the glory of Christ.

Evangelism:

By God’s grace, we’ve been visiting the children’s emergency room at the central hospital, providing food (around 60 arepas) and sharing the Gospel message of hope. This helps families in need, offering sustenance to hospitalized children (for those whose diets permit it) and their accompanying parents.

As you may know, we face a healthcare crisis. Medications are expensive, and medical care has significantly declined. Please join us in prayer, asking the Lord for his grace to help us overcome this challenging situation and the detrimental effects of the current system. It’s heartbreaking to see so many struggle with such basic healthcare needs.

Our outreach extends beyond the hospital. We’ve been actively preaching in public squares, distributing Christian literature, and engaging in conversations with people we encounter. This includes preaching and handing out materials on passenger vans as well.

Distribution of Christ centered literature:

The Lord has blessed us with the opportunity to continue supporting other pastors and preachers with more Christ-centered literature with the hope that they may become more Christ centered in their teaching and preaching ministries. Here are a few I most recently was able to share with.

Brother Ronny Morillo, a dedicated leader planting a church called “Las Riquezas de su Gracia” in a nearby town, received several Baptist confessions of faith and a family theology book.

The pastor and president of a Pentecostal federation (La Vida Verdadera church) with over 20 years of experience also received numerous books to enhance his preaching ministry.

Evangelist Rober Aranguren was gifted two books: “The Attributes of God” and “The Gospel of Grace.”

Additionally, a new church called the Church of God received several catechisms for their children’s Christian education program.

We are thankful for Chapel Library who sends these types of literature to many different countries. Please pray for the pastors and preachers receiving these valuable resources. May the Lord empower them in their preaching, allowing the message delivered from their pulpits to become increasingly Christ-centered.

Local Church:

Our discipleship program continues to flourish, with 14 individuals actively seeking membership in our local church. They are enthusiastic and growing in their faith.

We kindly ask for your continued prayers as we seek the Lord to raise up more pastors and deacons within our local church body.

Family:

We would greatly appreciate your prayers for our family, that we may continue to be a family that glorifies God.

In particular, we request prayers for my eldest daughter, Valentina. She has been experiencing inflammation in her parotid gland. Despite multiple tests and treatments, a definitive diagnosis remains elusive. Please pray for her health and for our peace of mind in the Lord.

Finally, we ask for your prayers for continued provision, allowing us to reach out and support more vulnerable individuals in our community.

May the peace of Christ be with you all.”

Rafael Rodriguez

 

Translated to English by Antonio Salgado

Please pray for our BCMS workers serving faithfully in hard places. May the Gospel continue to go forth, to God be the glory.

 

“I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5

 

If the Lord so lies on your heart to give back to Him by supporting this ministry, you can easily donate online through PayPal. Click the donate button below to send support of any amount directly to the ministry. This is the fastest option to get funds to the mission field.

 

 

 

PAUL’S POWERFUL PARTNERSHIP WITH THE PHILIPPIAN CHURCH

 

And you Philippians know that in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you alone.  

For even in Thessalonica you sent gifts for my need several times.  Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the profit that is increasing to your account. – Philippians 4:15-17

 

 

Main Theme: The book of Philippians emphasizes the importance of maintaining joy in the Lord even amidst suffering, while advancing the gospel through partnership.

 

Three key aspects of Paul’s powerful partnership with the Philippian church:

 

1. God Provides Through Partnership (Philippians 1:3-5):

I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. – Philippians 1:3-5

Partnership = κοινωνία

Koinonía- partnership, that is, (literally) participation, or (social) intercourse, or (pecuniary/involving money) benefaction: – (to) communicate (-ation), communion, (contri-), distribution, fellowship.

  • Paul expresses his gratitude for the Philippian church’s partnership (koinonia) in the gospel.
  • Koinonia is a multifaceted term encompassing participation, fellowship, and financial support.
  • This partnership signifies their shared commitment to spreading the gospel message.

 

2. Continued Care and Commitment (Philippians 4:10-11, 4:14-16):

! rejoiced in the Lord greatly because once again you renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it. I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself. – Philippians 4:10-11

Still, you did well by partnering with me in my hardship. And you Philippians know that in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you alone. For even in Thessalonica you sent gifts for my need several times. – Philippians 4:14-16

 

  • Paul highlights the church’s continued support and commitment to the partnership, even when opportunities to express it were limited.
  • He mentions his contentment in all circumstances, emphasizing a complete trust in the Lord and the ability to refrain from complaining about material needs. Paul makes it clear that making needs known is ok, but complaining about our circumstances is not.
  • However, he acknowledges their partnership in his hardship and their unique financial support throughout his ministry, making them an exception among other churches.

 

3. Promise of Provision (Philippians 4:17-19):

Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the profit that is increasing to your account. But I have received everything in full, and I have an abundance. I am fully supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you provided—a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will supply all your needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:17-19

 

  • Though Paul is grateful for their gifts, he emphasizes that his main concern isn’t his own well-being, but rather the Philippians’ spiritual growth. His words about their generosity and unwavering support echo the language used to describe sacrifices in the Old Testament, offerings pleasing to God.
  • He acknowledges their full support for his needs and expresses his abundance thanks to their gifts.
  • Lastly, Paul links their partnership to a divine promise: God will supply for all their needs based on His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

 

This is just a bird’s eye view of a few wonderful truths found in Philippians. In this unique little book, we find an excellent biblical model for missions that we should strive for. The book reveals a remarkable partnership between Paul and the Philippian church. They shared a common goal of spreading the gospel, and this partnership manifested through mutual support, commitment, and financial contributions. Paul highlights God’s provision through their partnership, not just for himself but for them as well, promising that God will meet all their needs. This partnership serves as an example of the power of collaboration and generosity of God’s people in advancing the gospel message while maintaining joy and contentment in challenging circumstances.

With such wonderful promises, a clear command and a biblical pattern to follow, we must ask ourselves..

What else hinders us from doing the Lord’s work the Lord’s way? What are we waiting for?

 

“God’s work, done God’s way, will never lack God’s supply.” – Hudson Taylor

 

Written by Antonio Salgado

 

Please pray for our BCMS workers serving faithfully in hard places. May the Gospel continue to go forth, to God be the glory.

 

“I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5

 

If the Lord so lies on your heart to give back to Him by supporting this ministry, you can easily donate online through PayPal. Click the donate button below to send support of any amount directly to the ministry. This is the fastest option to get funds to the mission field.

 

 

Also,

CENTRAL MISSIONARY CLEARINGHOUSE
P.O. Box 219228
Houston, Texas 77218-9228
1-800-CMC-PRAY (1-800-262-7729)
Office: 281-599-7411
Fax: 281-599-7511

You may begin sending your support to BCMS/Antonio Salgado at any time at the address above. (Checks should be made payable to Central Missionary Clearinghouse or C.M.C.)

You can also now give to the ministry online through the new giving solution called “click and give” at the CMC website. To get started, you just need to click on the link below and register the first time. Just a simple click on the donate button on their page (see link below), and then click the “click and give icon/button”.

https://www.cmcmissions.org/donate

For tax exemption, you must send your donation through Central Missionary Clearinghouse (CMC) at the address above. PayPal option is the fastest way to get funds directly to the field in case of emergencies. We do not use a sending agency that gets a percentage of the money donated, so you can be sure that your gift goes directly to the mission field. Whatever you decide, thank you so much for praying for us. Grace and peace.

 

CISTERNAS ROTAS (BROKEN CISTERNS IN SPANISH)

Han abandonado al Señor, fuente de aguas vivas, y cavaron para sí cisternas rotas que no retienen agua. – Jeremías 2:13 

 

¿Alguna vez has intentado llenar un recipiente roto? Un cubo, una taza o un tanque de cualquier tipo hecho para líquidos. Es frustrante e improductivo. Si estás viajando o tratando de transportar líquidos en él, llegarás a tu destino vacío. Lo más probable es que se vacíe mucho antes de lo esperado. En el “primer mundo” no es tan común. Pero en algunos lugares sin agua corriente y lejos de una fuente, si el agua es lo que tu familia, ganado o cultivos necesitan, puede ser una cuestión de vida o muerte. Sin embargo, a menudo hacemos esto en la vida, usando intencionalmente cisternas rotas. Simplemente no funciona. Porque tratamos de hacer las cosas a nuestra manera, usando nuestras propias cisternas rotas en lugar de la buena que ya ha sido provista.

 

Cuando nos encontremos con poca esperanza y luchando con la identidad y el propósito, debemos volver a la fuente de todo.

 

Con tanta desinformación y distracciones bombardeándonos literalmente a cada minuto, es posible olvidar temporalmente algunas cosas realmente importantes. Somos criaturas olvidadizas que necesitan ser dirigidas a una verdad trascendente y absoluta que existe.

 

  • Fuimos creados a imagen de Dios.

 

  • Creados por Él y con un propósito para Él.

 

  • Fuimos creados como adoradores.

 

  • Es quiénes y qué somos.

 

  • Pero también somos criaturas caídas en un mundo caído.

 

Si no adoramos a Dios, nos adoraremos a nosotros mismos, a algo o a alguien más. Incluso, si queremos llamarlo por otro nombre.

 

Hay muchas cosas maravillosas en este mundo que Dios nos ha dado para nuestro placer y disfrute. Pero también podemos adorar y priorizar las cosas equivocadas y menos importantes que tienden a desviarnos del camino. Podemos confundirnos o ser engañados si no nos aferramos a una verdad objetiva real que pueda ser conocida y aplique a todos.

 

La verdad es que todos lo hemos hecho en algún grado, en algún momento. Y es una de las grandes tragedias de la experiencia humana. Contrariamente, al pensamiento de la nueva era, el conocimiento de uno mismo comienza con el conocimiento de Dios. Ahí es donde encontramos las respuestas a las grandes preguntas de la vida. El fabricante de un vehículo que lo diseñó y lo produjo sabe más sobre él que alguien que simplemente posee uno.

 

Si no tenemos cuidado, en la vida podemos terminar tratando de clavar un clavo con un destornillador. O debido a un hambre real dentro de nosotros, comer una planta que es hermosa a la vista, pero que puede envenenarnos en lugar de nutrirnos, metafóricamente hablando.

 

Esto sucede cuando intentamos forzar algo impulsado por nuestro propio deseo hacia un propósito para el que nunca fue diseñado. Pero no nos puede satisfacer, y muchas veces solo nos lastima. Esto solo hace que la vida sea más dolorosa y frustrante. Imagina beber gasolina o poner agua en el tanque de gasolina de tu vehículo. No va a terminar bien.

 

Solo hasta que entendamos que todo tiene un propósito inteligentemente diseñado, y luego alineando nuestra percepción de las cosas con esa realidad última, podremos tener la posibilidad de una verdadera comprensión y gozo. Es crucial que levantemos nuestros ojos por encima de la niebla para ver el panorama general, ver nuestra gran necesidad y vivir para nuestro verdadero propósito. Cuando comprendemos eso y acudimos a Él como nuestra fuente de conocimiento, sabiduría y propósito, es cuando todo comienza a tener sentido y podemos encontrarnos a nosotros mismos. Todos haciendo lo que les plazca y lo que es correcto solo a sus propios ojos solo puede conducir a un caos total, confusión y más quebrantamiento.

 

Pero la respuesta, y la llave que abre todo, es Cristo. Todas las promesas de Dios en Él son sí y amén. Todos los que vienen a Él nunca serán echados fuera. Él es el puente que nos lleva de regreso a Dios, la luz que nos permite ver claramente y la única fuente de perdón, conocimiento y verdadera esperanza. La sanidad para nuestras almas que necesitamos desesperadamente. Es el conocimiento de Él lo que nos da una comprensión real del plan de Dios en este mundo quebrantado. Cuando las personas y las circunstancias nos decepcionan, y la vida a veces parece estar fuera de control, hay una gran esperanza al saber que Dios no es como nosotros. Más bien, Él siempre es Fiel, Inmutable y Verdadero.

 

Una pregunta que viene a la mente es esta…

 

¿Por qué un alma errante y sedienta en el calor de un desierto implacable continuaría rechazando el agua que da vida cuando se la ofrecen? Es lo único que realmente satisfará, saciará la sed y, en última instancia, salvará su vida.

 

Clama a Cristo. Lo necesitas. Todos lo necesitamos.

 

“Porque Dios muestra su amor para con nosotros, en que siendo aún pecadores, Cristo murió por nosotros.” – Romanos 5:8

 

Escrito por Antonio Salgado

 

Please pray for our BCMS workers serving faithfully in hard places. May the Gospel continue to go forth, to God be the glory.

 

“I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5

 

If the Lord so lies on your heart to give back to Him by supporting this ministry, you can easily donate online through PayPal. Click the donate button below to send support of any amount directly to the ministry. This is the fastest option to get funds to the mission field.

 

 

Also,

CENTRAL MISSIONARY CLEARINGHOUSE
P.O. Box 219228
Houston, Texas 77218-9228
1-800-CMC-PRAY (1-800-262-7729)
Office: 281-599-7411
Fax: 281-599-7511

You may begin sending your support to BCMS/Antonio Salgado at any time at the address above. (Checks should be made payable to Central Missionary Clearinghouse or C.M.C.)

You can also now give to the ministry online through the new giving solution called “click and give” at the CMC website. To get started, you just need to click on the link below and register the first time. Just a simple click on the donate button on their page (see link below), and then click the “click and give icon/button”.

https://www.cmcmissions.org/donate

For tax exemption, you must send your donation through Central Missionary Clearinghouse (CMC) at the address above. PayPal option is the fastest way to get funds directly to the field in case of emergencies. We do not use a sending agency that gets a percentage of the money donated, so you can be sure that your gift goes directly to the mission field. Whatever you decide, thank you so much for praying for us. Grace and peace.

BROKEN CISTERNS

 

“.. They have abandoned me, the fountain of living water, and dug cisterns for themselves — cracked cisterns that cannot hold water.”

Jeremiah 2:13 CSB

 

Have you ever tried filling a vessel that was cracked? A bucket, a cup or a holding tank of any kind that was made for liquids. It’s frustrating and unproductive. If you are traveling or trying to transport any liquids in it, you will arrive at your destination empty. Most likely, it will be empty much sooner than expected. In the first world it isn’t as common, but in some places with no running water and far from a source, if it’s water that your family, livestock or crops need, it can be a matter of life or death. Yet we often do this in life, intentionally using cracked cisterns. But it just doesn’t work. Because we try doing things our own way, using our own cracked cisterns instead of the good one that has already been provided.

 

When we find ourselves with little hope and struggling with identity and purpose, we should go back to the source of everything. 

 

With so much misinformation and distractions bombarding us literally by the minute, it is possible to temporarily forget some really important things. We are forgetful creatures that need to be pointed to a transcendent and absolute truth that exists. 

 

We were created in the image of God. 

Created by Him and with a purpose for Him. 

We were created as worshipers. 

It’s who and what we are. 

But we are also fallen creatures in a fallen world. 

 

If we don’t worship God, we will worship ourselves, something(s) or someone else. Even if we may want to call it by another name. 

 

There are many wonderful things in this world that God has given to us for our pleasure and enjoyment. But we can also adore and prioritize the wrong and less important things, which tend to lead us astray. We can get confused or deceived if we don’t cling to a real, objective truth that can be known and applies to everyone. 

 

The truth is, we’ve all done it to some degree, at one time or another. And it is one of the great tragedies of the human experience. Contrary to new age thinking, knowledge of self actually begins with knowledge of God. That is where we find our answers to life’s great questions. The manufacturer of a vehicle that designed and produced it knows more about it than someone who simply owns one. 

 

If we aren’t careful, in life, we can end up trying to drive a nail with a screwdriver. Or because of a real hunger within us, eat a plant that is beautiful to look upon, but can poison us instead of nourishing us, metaphorically speaking.

 

This happens when we try forcing something driven by our own desire for a purpose that it was never intended for. But it cannot satisfy us, and oftentimes only hurts us. This only makes life more painful and frustrating. Imagine drinking gasoline, or putting water in your gas tank. It’s not going to end well.

 

Only until we understand that everything has an intelligently designed purpose, and then aligning our perception of things with that ultimate reality, can we have the possibility of true understanding and joy. It is crucial that we lift our eyes above the fog to see the bigger picture, to see our great need, and to live for our true purpose. When we grasp that and go to Him as our source of knowledge, wisdom and purpose, is when everything begins to make sense and we can truly find ourselves. Everyone doing as they please and what is right only in their own eyes can only lead to utter chaos, confusion and more brokenness. 

 

But the answer, and the key that unlocks everything, is Christ. All of God’s promises in Him are yes and amen. All who come to Him will never be cast out. He is the bridge which brings us back to God, the light that allows us to see clearly and the only source of forgiveness, knowledge and true hope. The healing for our souls that we desperately need. It is the knowledge of Him that gives us a real understanding of God’s plan in this broken world. When people and circumstances disappoint us, and life at times seems to be spiraling out of control, there is great hope in knowing that God is not like us. Rather, He is always Faithful, Unchanging and True.

 

One question that comes to mind is this…

 

Why would a wandering and thirsty soul in the heat of an unforgiving desert continue to refuse life giving water when offered? It is the only thing that will truly satisfy, quench the thirst, and ultimately, save his life. 

 

Go to Him. You need Him. We all do.

 

“..but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”- Romans 5:8

 

Written by: Antonio Salgado

Please pray for our BCMS workers serving faithfully in hard places. May the Gospel continue to go forth, to God be the glory.

“I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5

If the Lord so lies on your heart to give back to Him by supporting this ministry, you can easily donate online through PayPal. Click the donate button below to send support of any amount directly to the ministry. This is the fastest option to get funds to the mission field.

 

Also,

CENTRAL MISSIONARY CLEARINGHOUSE
P.O. Box 219228
Houston, Texas 77218-9228
1-800-CMC-PRAY (1-800-262-7729)
Office: 281-599-7411
Fax: 281-599-7511

You may begin sending your support to BCMS/Antonio Salgado at any time at the address above. (Checks should be made payable to Central Missionary Clearinghouse or C.M.C.)

You can also now give to the ministry online through the new giving solution called “click and give” at the CMC website. To get started, you just need to click on the link below and register the first time. Just a simple click on the donate button on their page (see link below), and then click the “click and give icon/button”.

https://www.cmcmissions.org/donate

For tax exemption, you must send your donation through Central Missionary Clearinghouse (CMC) at the address above. PayPal option is the fastest way to get funds directly to the field in case of emergencies. We do not use a sending agency that gets a percentage of the money donated, so you can be sure that your gift goes directly to the mission field. Whatever you decide, thank you so much for praying for us. Grace and peace.

EL PADRE DE LAS MISERICORDIAS Y CONSOLADOR EN NUESTRAS AFLICCIONES

Seamos realistas, todos tenemos problemas con los que lidiamos. Y puede ser difícil, muy difícil. Ya sea una mala noticia sobre tu salud, un diagnóstico terminal o de alguien muy cercano a ti. Podrían ser problemas de conducta de un niño pequeño o un adolescente rebelde, conflictos maritales, pérdida de empleo o alguna otra crisis financiera que puede agravar y empeorar cualquiera de estos problemas. Ciertamente, puede suceder en los entornos aparentemente más seguros. ¿Cuánto más ocurrirá en el campo misionero, en un contexto diferente al tuyo, lejos de todo lo que una vez fue querido y familiar? Donde el estrés y los peligros se multiplican y la dificultad se convierte en un estilo de vida. Simplemente, viene con el territorio.

Estas dificultades a veces pueden tener su raíz en nuestro propio pecado, descuido o irresponsabilidad. O podríamos encontrarnos atrapados en el fuego cruzado del pecado de otra persona. O puede ser simplemente los efectos de un mundo caído sobre quienes más los amamos. Aun así puede afectarnos profundamente.

Puede ser suficiente para llevar a alguien a una espiral de depresión o algún otro estado mental perjudicial o un bajón espiritual que se siente como un oscuro e inescapable valle de desesperación. Durante esos momentos, Dios puede parecer distante y nuestras oraciones y gemidos de angustia hacia el cielo pueden incluso sentir que no son escuchadas. ¡Gracias a Dios que no es así! Pero si somos honestos, puede sentirse así a veces. Como creyentes, podemos confiar verdaderamente en el Señor durante la tormenta, pero eso no siempre lo hace más fácil, humanamente hablando. Incluso podemos encontrarnos en nuestro límite, gritando de miedo como los discípulos en el bote “¡Señor, sálvanos! ¡Nos vamos a morir!”

Aunque una temporada de paz y tranquilidad pueda llegar después (tal vez), en ese momento puede sentirse abrumador y casi demasiado difícil de soportar. Algunos sufren por una temporada, otros lidian con ello toda la vida.

“Aún cuando yo camine por el valle de sombra de muerte, No temeré mal alguno, Porque tú estás conmigo; Tu vara y tu cayado me infundirán aliento.” – Salmo 23:4

Muchas “tormentas” en la vida causan estragos y dejan un camino de destrucción a su paso, al igual que las tormentas reales. Y al igual que en una tormenta real, por lo general se necesita tiempo para “reconstruir” después de que se ha producido el daño. Algunas tormentas pueden cambiar la vida y para algunas, incluso acabar con ella. Muchos se encuentran en shock y conmocionados hasta la médula, solo pueden llorar por su situación y recoger los pedazos mientras avanzan cojeando de la experiencia traumática y dolorosa. Esto le sucede todos los días a algunas personas, durante diferentes períodos de tiempo, en algún lugar. No debemos sorprendernos. De hecho, deberíamos aprender a esperarlo eventualmente si entendemos lo que dice la Escritura sobre la naturaleza caída del mundo en el que vivimos y los efectos del pecado mientras vivamos aquí.

Dios, de hecho, nos da más de lo que podemos manejar. Por favor, no seas una de esas personas que dicen que no lo hace, o que solo lo hace porque sabe que podemos manejarlo (como si en realidad fuéramos tan fuertes por nosotros mismos). Si pudiéramos hacerlo por nuestra cuenta y con nuestras propias fuerzas, no lo necesitaríamos. La historia de Gedeón viene a la mente. (Y permíteme decir brevemente, el popular, pero a menudo mal citado versículo en 1 Corintios no significa lo que piensas que significa).

El Señor trae sufrimiento a nuestras vidas más a menudo de lo que nos gustaría. Pero Él tiene Sus razones, y debemos confiar en Él a través de ello. Debemos hacerlo. Claro, podemos conocer el plan y la voluntad de Dios en general, pero muchas veces Sus planes para nosotros como individuos en los detalles de nuestra vida diaria no son tan fáciles de ver o entender. Los planes de Dios para nosotros a menudo son muy diferentes a los nuestros.

Pero si nos encontramos realmente luchando mientras sufrimos, debemos preguntarnos esto. Cuando las cosas se ponen difíciles, ¿adónde más podemos ir realmente? ¿De dónde viene realmente nuestra ayuda? Seguro que el Señor usará a las personas como medio para consolarnos y ayudarnos, pero en última instancia, solo Él puede darnos paz. Verdadera paz. ¿Dónde encontraremos nuestra fuerza para soportar, sino en la naturaleza inmutable de nuestro Señor, las promesas fieles en Cristo y el cuidado amoroso?

El Señor es mi pastor; nada me falta. – Salmo 23:1

Él es nuestra Torre Fuerte, nuestra Roca, nuestro Escudo y Fortaleza a la que acudimos para buscar consuelo, refugio y paz. Solo en Cristo estamos verdaderamente seguros, y separados de Cristo no podemos hacer nada.

Me recuerda un himno moderno muy conocido que dice bellamente:

“Solo en Cristo está mi esperanza

Él es mi luz, mi fuerza, mi canción

Esta piedra angular, este terreno sólido

Firme a través de la sequía y la tormenta más feroces

Qué alturas de amor, qué profundidades de paz

Cuando los temores se calman, cuando los esfuerzos cesan

Mi Consolador, mi Todo en Todo

Aquí en el amor de Cristo estoy”

Hermosas palabras conmovedoras, ¿verdad? Pero la pregunta es,

¿lo creemos? ¿Realmente le creemos?

¿Realmente confiamos en Él?

¿Realmente creemos que Él es bueno?

¿Realmente creemos que Él está obrando todas las cosas para bien de los que lo aman, incluso cuando no podemos verlo?

Es importante recordar que independientemente de lo que creamos, Él será glorificado. Incluso en las circunstancias aparentemente más terribles. Pero también podemos descansar al recordar que Él es un Padre bondadoso, compasivo, inmutable y fiel, y acercarnos a Él. Debemos aprender a permanecer en Cristo. Su mano soberana y su amor por su pueblo serán la almohada sobre la que reposemos nuestras cabezas cansadas.

El Señor es mi fortaleza y mi escudo; mi corazón confía en él, y soy socorrido. Por tanto, mi corazón se regocija y le doy gracias con mi canto. – Salmo 28:7

La naturaleza inmutable de Dios es un ancla que nos mantiene aferrados a la Roca que nunca nos fallará ni nos expulsará en esos momentos difíciles, ni jamás si estás en Cristo. Mientras escribo esto, me vienen a la mente muchas personas queridas. Familiares cercanos y familia en la fe que están actualmente lidiando con algunas de las cosas que mencioné al principio, o incluso peor en este mismo momento. Oren por mí y por otros misioneros que conocen estas tormentas demasiado bien. Pero también oren por los que sufren en su iglesia. Un vecino, un amigo, o tal vez incluso alguien en su propio hogar.

Bendito sea el Dios y Padre de nuestro Señor Jesucristo, Padre de misericordias y Dios de todo consuelo. Él nos consuela en todas nuestras tribulaciones, para que podamos consolar a los que están en cualquier tipo de tribulación, por medio del consuelo que nosotros mismos recibimos de Dios. – 2 Corintios 1:3-4

A ellos solo puedo decirles que confíen en Él, lo alaben, se queden a solas con Él y Su Palabra y oren. Él es el Padre de misericordias y el Dios de todo consuelo, que nos consuela en nuestra aflicción. El Señor es nuestro Pastor, tenemos lo que necesitamos. Si perseveramos, seremos más como Jesús cuando termine. Y aunque no lo crea, incluso estaremos agradecidos por esas tormentas difíciles pero transformadoras en nuestras vidas. Oren.

He aprendido a besar la ola que me arroja contra la Roca de los Siglos. – Charles Spurgeon

Escrito por Antonio Salgado

Please pray for our BCMS workers serving faithfully in hard places. May the Gospel continue to go forth, to God be the glory.

“I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5

If the Lord so lies on your heart to give back to Him by supporting this ministry, you can easily donate online through PayPal. Click the donate button below to send support of any amount directly to the ministry. This is the fastest option to get funds to the mission field.

Also,

CENTRAL MISSIONARY CLEARINGHOUSE
P.O. Box 219228
Houston, Texas 77218-9228
1-800-CMC-PRAY (1-800-262-7729)
Office: 281-599-7411
Fax: 281-599-7511

You may begin sending your support to BCMS/Antonio Salgado at any time at the address above. (Checks should be made payable to Central Missionary Clearinghouse or C.M.C.)

You can also now give to the ministry online through the new giving solution called “click and give” at the CMC website. To get started, you just need to click on the link below and register the first time. Just a simple click on the donate button on their page (see link below), and then click the “click and give icon/button”.

https://www.cmcmissions.org/donate

For tax exemption, you must send your donation through Central Missionary Clearinghouse (CMC) at the address above. PayPal option is the fastest way to get funds directly to the field in case of emergencies. We do not use a sending agency that gets a percentage of the money donated, so you can be sure that your gift goes directly to the mission field. Whatever you decide, thank you so much for praying for us. Grace and peace.

THE FREEDOM OF FORGIVENESS

 

“bearing with one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a grievance against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you are also to forgive.” – Colossians 3:13

 

The Gospel isn’t just for unbelievers; it’s a constant reminder and source of freedom for us believers too. We tend to forget, so preaching the Gospel to ourselves is vital. We need to marvel at the cross, at the depths of God’s forgiveness for us, just as Charles Spurgeon said: 

 

“I have to lie humbly at the foot of Christ’s cross & marvel that I am saved at all.”

 

This pardon humbles us, but it also liberates us. The Gospel reminds us of God’s immense grace through Christ’s sacrifice and the depth of our own sin, far greater than any offense another can commit. Our sin is against a Holy, infinitely Worthy Creator. So, as we contemplate the Gospel, we are disarmed and find ourselves without an argument. It frees us from self-importance and opens our eyes to the slow but sure self poisoning of unforgiveness, often rooted in our pride. We are then humbled by the cross’s grace, which empowers us to forgive others. Struggle is natural, especially with deep hurts or loved ones involved. We might stumble, but the Holy Spirit fosters a desire for forgiveness, which should eventually lead us to true reconciliation.

 

As Christians, forgiveness is a hallmark. When we struggle, meditating on God’s grace towards us and our own sin’s depth helps us forgive. Christ’s sacrifice paid for all our sin, leaving no condemnation for those in Him, including those we struggle to forgive. We‘ve been shown such incredible grace and love.

“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of his great love that he had for us, made us alive with Christ even though we were dead in trespasses. You are saved by grace!”- Ephesians 2:4-5

 

So pray, forgive, and release the bitterness. Heal and grow from the experience. “Be imitators of God,” showing grace and forgiveness to others, just as God has done so to us in Christ. Because at the end of the day, we too should lie humbly at the foot of Christ’s cross & marvel that any of us are saved at all.

 

We need to hear the Gospel every day, because we forget it every day. – Martin Luther

 

Written by Antonio Salgado

 

Please pray for our BCMS workers serving faithfully in hard places. May the Gospel continue to go forth, to God be the glory.

“I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5

If the Lord so lies on your heart to give back to Him by supporting this ministry, you can easily donate online through PayPal. Click the donate button below to send support of any amount directly to the ministry. This is the fastest option to get funds to the mission field.

 

 

Also,

CENTRAL MISSIONARY CLEARINGHOUSE
P.O. Box 219228
Houston, Texas 77218-9228
1-800-CMC-PRAY (1-800-262-7729)
Office: 281-599-7411
Fax: 281-599-7511

You may begin sending your support to BCMS/Antonio Salgado at any time at the address above. (Checks should be made payable to Central Missionary Clearinghouse or C.M.C.)

You can also now give to the ministry online through the new giving solution called “click and give” at the CMC website. To get started, you just need to click on the link below and register the first time. Just a simple click on the donate button on their page (see link below), and then click the “click and give icon/button”.

https://www.cmcmissions.org/donate

For tax exemption, you must send your donation through Central Missionary Clearinghouse (CMC) at the address above. PayPal option is the fastest way to get funds directly to the field in case of emergencies. We do not use a sending agency that gets a percentage of the money donated, so you can be sure that your gift goes directly to the mission field. Whatever you decide, thank you so much for praying for us. Grace and peace.

BCMS UPDATE FROM MARACAY, VENEZUELA

Update from Rafael Rodriguez Serving in Maracay, Venezuela

“Greetings brothers and sisters,

By the grace of the Lord, I was blessed to be able to go with my family to share the Gospel in a nearby community called Turmero. There is a new church is being planted there.

The person in charge of the mission is a very good and beloved friend of mine.  I spoke to the brethren that day on the mercy of God. There are presently about 12 brothers and sisters who gather regularly. The brother in charge is of a different theological background but is humble and open to learn. He and the group have been gathering diligently to study the doctrines of grace and the biblical Gospel. Praise the Lord for their desire to study and grow.

Please pray that the Lord will continue to help us, and help them, so that the Lord will bless the preaching of the Gospel in that community and that these brothers and sisters may continue to grow in knowledge and grace.”

The peace of Christ be with you.

BCMS Worker Rafael Rodriguez

Translated by Antonio Salgado

Please pray for our BCMS workers serving faithfully in hard places. May the Gospel continue to go forth, to God be the glory.

“I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5

If the Lord so lies on your heart to give back to Him by supporting this ministry:

You can donate to this ministry online with PayPal. Click the donate button below to send support of any amount directly to the ministry. This is the fastest option to get funds to us. Click the link below for that option.

Also,

CENTRAL MISSIONARY CLEARINGHOUSE
P.O. Box 219228
Houston, Texas 77218-9228
1-800-CMC-PRAY (1-800-262-7729)
Office: 281-599-7411
Fax: 281-599-7511

The ministry of (CMC) serves hundreds of missionaries, but they ONLY receive the funds for us and in no way have control over how the funds are to be spent or what we are to do as a ministry, which gives room to be sensitive to the Spirit’s leading and the liberty in making needed adjustments.

You may begin sending your support to the BCMS (Antonio Salgado) at any time at the address above. (Checks should be made payable to Central Missionary Clearinghouse or C.M.C.)

You can also now give to the ministry here in the DR online through the new giving solution called “click and give” at the CMC website.

To get started, you just need to click on the link below and register the first time. Just a simple click on the donate button on their page (see link below), and then click the “click and give icon/button”.

https://www.cmcmissions.org/donate

For tax exemption, you must send your donation through Central Missionary Clearinghouse (CMC) at the address above. But the PayPal option is the fastest way to get funds directly to the field.

We do not use a sending agency that gets a percentage of the money donated, so you can be sure that your gift goes directly to the mission field.

Whatever you decide, thank you so much for praying for us. Grace and peace.

BCMS UPDATE: LEONEL RIVIERE IN HAITI

Congratulations to brother Leonel on reaching the halfway point of his Bachelor’s degree in Theology. This is a remarkable achievement that requires dedication, study, and a true passion for faith. It is inspiring to see his commitment and constant effort on this journey of spiritual and academic growth, especially amidst the many challenges he faces with the present situation in his country.

Leonel has served the Lord for several years, in Haiti and in the Dominican Republic. But it was in recent years, through the support of our mission partners, that he was able to begin studying formally. May the Lord continue to use him for His glory, and that this would be just another step towards Leonel serving our Lord and His people in an even deeper way.

Thank you for helping us equip the saints, investing in faithful men like Leonel who can teach others also. Soli Deo Gloria

What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.- 2 Timothy 2:2

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.- 2 Timothy 2:1

 

 

Please pray for our BCMS workers serving faithfully in hard places. May the Gospel continue to go forth, to God be the glory.

“I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5

If the Lord so lies on your heart to give back to Him by supporting this ministry:

You can donate to this ministry online with PayPal. Click the donate button below to send support of any amount directly to the ministry. This is the fastest option to get funds to us. Click the link below for that option.

Also,

CENTRAL MISSIONARY CLEARINGHOUSE
P.O. Box 219228
Houston, Texas 77218-9228
1-800-CMC-PRAY (1-800-262-7729)
Office: 281-599-7411
Fax: 281-599-7511

The ministry of (CMC) serves hundreds of missionaries, but they ONLY receive the funds for us and in no way have control over how the funds are to be spent or what we are to do as a ministry, which gives room to be sensitive to the Spirit’s leading and the liberty in making needed adjustments.

You may begin sending your support to the BCMS (Antonio Salgado) at any time at the address above. (Checks should be made payable to Central Missionary Clearinghouse or C.M.C.)

You can also now give to the ministry here in the DR online through the new giving solution called “click and give” at the CMC website.

To get started, you just need to click on the link below and register the first time. Just a simple click on the donate button on their page (see link below), and then click the “click and give icon/button”.

https://www.cmcmissions.org/donate

For tax exemption, you must send your donation through Central Missionary Clearinghouse (CMC) at the address above. But the PayPal option is the fastest way to get funds directly to the field.

We do not use a sending agency that gets a percentage of the money donated, so you can be sure that your gift goes directly to the mission field.

Whatever you decide, thank you so much for praying for us. Grace and peace.