If you look up the definition of Christian you find the
following: an adherent of Christianity (noun), disciple (noun); then under
adjectives the following definitions: of or relating to Christianity, based on
or conforming with Christianity, professing Christianity, commendably decent or
generous, one who has a deep concern for others. So I wonder which one of these definitions
I'm like most of the time. My definition of a Christian has always been someone
who is “like Christ.”
God has given me many
opportunities this past week to be like Him. Some of these included taking
someone to an appointment, providing food for a person in need, providing gas,
helping with someone's electric bill, repairing household items for someone,
mowing for someone, etc. So I've learned I'm most like Christ when I'm serving
others. You remember He came not to be served, but to serve (Matt. 20:28).
So then the “check
your attitude light comes on” in my head. I now notice I don't mind doing these
things as long as I don't have a conflict with things I want to do. In other
words as long as it’s convenient for me I want to be like Christ. As long as it
doesn't interfere with “my activities” I want to follow and serve Him. He just better not expect it when I want to
watch the Cardinals, or go shopping, or go to a ballgame with family, or go
mushroom hunting, etc. So I reach this question “How much time am I really
giving Him, or living out being “like Christ?”
So now I must answer
the question, just like you must, which activities and opportunities for
service glorify God the most? I've got to tell you, I don't always choose
right, but I'm getting better at showing the world what the real Jesus looks
like. Then I read passages like John 12:25-27 and realize I'm not in the same pew
with Christ, I'm not even in the same stadium with Him. Listen to His words as
He describes “giving all”--not just when it's convenient. “He who loves his
life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life
eternal. If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My
servant will be also, if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him. Now My soul has become troubled,
and what shall I say, Father save Me from this hour? But for this purpose I
came to this hour.”
Jesus was willing to go to
His death for us knowing the future held something better for Him. Are you
willing to trade “your wants” in this life knowing the future holds something
better for you? I'm working on that attitude of the heart—I hope you are too.
—Alan
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