I am a Jesus pusher!!! Upon the imprisonment of John the Baptist, Jesus moved His ministry to Galilee (Matthew 4:12, 13). It would have been politically correct to minister in Jerusalem, befriend the leaders of Israel, and become known in the temple. Jesus could have correctly claimed Judea as His home place; He was born in Bethlehem. But He did not; He went to Galilee. The Galileans were His people; He was raised among them. Their fishing and farming culture was His. He identified with their political struggles; He understood their economic circumstances. He spoke with their accent; He enjoyed their music. He was one of them!
I have this same personal connection to Jesus. He came from my hometown, speaks with my accent, and was raised in my environment. How can Jesus do this for all of us? A friend of mine shared with me this vision. Jesus was sitting on the throne of His Kingdom. My friend was sitting next to Him. My friend seemed so small; in fact, his feet stretched out straight on the chair as if he were a child. He asked Jesus, “Are we alone?” Jesus laughed and said, “No, there are millions of people all around.” With a wave of His hand He corrected my friend’s vision so all were seen. “Why are they not sitting beside you as I am?” was his next question. Jesus answered, “They are!” Let me assure you of your special connection to Him. He has your color of skin, your history, and knows your need. He is from your hometown. When He comes to where you are, He has come home! I am a Jesus pusher!!!