Letter From Jesus to New Believers

The following is a wonderful "letter from Jesus to New Believers" divinely inspired and written by the senior minister (The Reverend Rebecca Mincieli) of the John Wesley United Methodist Church of Falmouth, MA. It was intended for the newly admitted confirmands at the church but applies equally to all of us.

Dear New Believer:
 
What a great day this is! You have claimed our family name—the name of Christ. You have publicly stated that you want to be a Christian and follow me. I have so many wonderful things planned for you. But be patient. All that I want to tell you and show you will take a lifetime—your lifetime. As we begin, there are a few things I want you to keep in mind. In case you lose this letter, you can find most of it (the parts in italics) in your Bible.

First, know that you are very special. I created you uniquely, with your own gifts and talents. See how great a love I have for you that you should be called my child, for this is what you are (I John 3:1). I formed your inward parts. I knit you together in your mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13). I know the number of hairs on your head (Matthew 10:30). You are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), You are precious in my sight, and I love you. (Isaiah 43:4)

And because I love you, I want to give you all the best. Call upon me, come and pray to me and I will listen to you (Jeremiah 29:12). Ask and it shall be given to you; seek and you shall find; knock and it shall be opened to you (Matthew 7:7). I know all that you need. Just seek me first, and all these things will be given to you (Matthew 6:32–33).

There will be times in your life when you start to worry or feel anxious about something. But I tell you, Do not be anxious for anything, but in everything, with prayer and thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to me (Philippians 4:7). Trust in me with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). I cause all things to work together for good to those who love me, and who follow my path (Romans 8:28).

Contrary to what some may say, it is not difficult to live the Christian life. It is simple, for it is a life of love. Love me with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might, and love your neighbor as yourself (Luke 10:27). Do not judge and you will not be judged, do not condemn, and you will not be condemned (Luke 6:37). Just as you want people to treat you, treat them in the same way (Luke 6:31). Love one another, just as I have loved you (John 15:12).

You will make mistakes sometimes, I know that. All have sinned and fallen short of my glory (Romans 3:23). But if you confess your sins, I will forgive you. (I John 1:9). As far as the east is from the west, so will I remove your sins from you (Psalm 103:12). However, there is a requirement: If you forgive others, I will forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, I will not forgive you (Matthew 6:14–15).

Throughout your life, people will tempt you to put your hope and trust in things of this world. They will claim that money, possessions, status, and good looks will bring you happiness. But this isn’t true. Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy and where thieves do not break in or steal (Matthew 6:19–20). For what shall it profit you to gain the whole world, and forfeit your soul? (Mark 8:36)

I want life to be an exciting adventure for you. I’ve already given you a beautiful Earth, special talents, parents, grandparents, and a church family that is loving and supportive. And I am excited for your decision today. For I know the plans I have for you. Plans for good and not evil, to give you a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11). Don’t let your heart be troubled or afraid (John 14:1). Be strong and courageous (Joshua 1:9). And remember, I am with you every step of the way (Matthew 28:20).

I love you,
God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit