SHARP ERO UPDATE #3

Destined brethren,

Yesterday I met my favorite worship artist Jason Upton. He led a special chapel service in the Regent University Theatre; he’s an alum. He ministered through song and story. He is unpretentious, unscripted and down to earth. A real man of God is always approachable. His closing song repeated the words “It’s hard learning to love like you” over and over again. It was on time, on target and on fire. For more on this gifted brother check out his website www.jasonupton.com.

It’s hard learning to love like Jesus. How does Jesus love us? “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13). That’s it and that’s what we, as born again believers, are called to as well. 1st John 3:16 says, “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.” It’s so practical, so simple and straightforward. It’s easy to an intellectual ideal. It’s hard to live it out. That part requires faith in the faithfulness of God Almighty.

Yesterday I also had the pleasure of meeting producer and author Ken Wales. He most recently produced Amazing Grace; an amazing movie. He shared the story of his book Sea of Glory with me; it’s getting made into a film. It is based on a true story from World War II. Four naval chaplains laid down their lives so others could live. I plan on reading the book and look forward to the movie.

Jesus says the phrase “your Father, who sees what is done in secret” three times in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:4, 6:6 and 6:18). That’s where the Lord looks at us first, what we do in secret. What you do in public is your obligation, what you do in private is adoration. The living God, I believe, detests the idea of being anyone’s obligation but greatly delights in the adoration of his born again children.

May we all adore Him with all of our hearts,

Eric Ryan Olson