“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
One thing about social media is that people can follow many rabbit trails. I do that occasionally but try to investigate only the good ones. For instance, I follow a lady named Brenda Gantt. Brenda, who began her Facebook journey during the 2020 pandemic, now has over 3.8 million followers on her “Cooking With Brenda Gantt” page. That’s not too bad for a 77-year-old retired school teacher from Andalusia, Alabama!
Brenda never fails to give God all the credit for her success, for she did not aspire to have this current notoriety. It all began when everything was in lockdown, and she couldn’t go to church. Brenda decided to make a video and post it on her Facebook page to share the finer points of biscuit-making with her church friends. And as they say, “The rest is history.” Brenda’s fame began, and it has not slowed since. She has published beautiful cookbooks, runs a B&B called The Cottle House, and works hard around her home trimming, planting, and burning. Her husband passed away some years ago, so her property in the country takes a lot of time and hard work. You name it, and Brenda can do it.
Five years later, with such an enormous following, Brenda continues to cook down-home southern recipes while weaving encouraging messages throughout her cooking show. I call her a Good News Ambassador because she sometimes sits down, opens the Bible, and shares a Scripture and a little mini message of encouragement. Or she will talk about Jesus while she cooks. This one-of-a-kind lady has such a zest for life, and her presence on social media is a God-given treasure. Today, thousands of people are being reached through her unique ministry, and I’m thankful to be one of them.
Like Brenda Gantt, we can be Good News Ambassadors right where we are. He has placed within each of us the ability to make a positive difference in the lives of others. We can rest assured that God sees us and will equip us to share His light and love with others. He will help us become His Good News Ambassadors. Whatever that looks like for you, I hope you will make a difference in someone else’s life this week, whether it’s in your home, at your workplace, at the grocery store, or any other place in the daily traffic lanes of your life. You are most likely needed to give someone a smile, a hug, a helping hand, or some kind words.
Today, many people need the presence of a Good News Ambassador in their lives. You don’t need 3.8 million followers to be special and important. You are special and important right where you are. So, shine your light for Jesus this week! You will be immensely blessed.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before you as humbly as we know how. You are the Name Above All Names—the Great I AM. We long to be Your faithful Good News Ambassador in everything we say and do. Please direct us through Your Holy Spirit to spread Your love and light to those we encounter this week. May we offer help to the helpless, hope to the hopeless, and encouragement to those whose hearts have been shattered by pain and loss. Thank you for hearing our prayers. I pray this in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
