So... You're a Christian?

Yes. I. Am! When given the opportunity to answer that question, I always answer in the affirmative. Then I wonder if they understand what that word really means. I recently read an article about someone who claimed that identification, but I honestly don't think they know who they are identifying with. To say you are a Christian means you are saying you identify with Jesus Christ. If you have seen the movie The Princess Bride, there are scenes in which a particular character keeps using the word inconceivable over and over. I love the response/joke that is given each time... I don't think that word means what you think it means.  http://youtu.be/1-b7RmmMJeo 

     If there is anyone in history to whom you want to identify with and is quoted as saying; “And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23 ESV

http://bible.com/59/luk.9.23.esv

That's saying a lot.

    It's not a sentiment or a feeling, it's a life decision to conform your existence to someone other than yourself. That someone is the creator of the universe; the Alpha and Omega, beginning and the end.

  I believe this requires each us us to examine ourselves regularly and continue to surrender our very self to Christ. Regardless of what the culture may tell us or even distort who Jesus is.

  A very popular quote that people love to reference about Christians is this "I like your Christ. I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ." 

Which is attributed to Ghandi. He, like most people in this world only have a very limited understanding of the person of Jesus Christ. I would also venture to say that most make up who Jesus is based on what they have heard from others. I would challenge anyone who is truly interested to read and study the gospels Matthew, Mark, Luke & John and be careful to read them in the context from when and where they were written. There are plenty of excellent resources available that can help one to understand the person Jesus Christ; but again, start with the very word of God - The Bible. Begin reading the words of Jesus himself. In doing so, you can see Him for who He is and decide how you might truly answer that simple question. I know I have and would hope you would as well.  Blessings.

A Psalm

Praise the Lord! This day I will praise Him. I will walk in His ways. I will seek His face and glory in His presence. Though there are trials today and even tomorrow. I will trust and hope in His ways. God knows the very steps I will take today. He knows the very thoughts I have. In Him I will glory. In Him will I trust. Praise the Lord!!

#42

Today I've reached a new number. It doesn't seem like much, but I'm kind of glad I made it another year. I do realize that at this age you think about how much you have accomplished, but also how far you still need to go. Nothing is guranteed, so I've got to keep getting up and look for what each day has to offer and be mindful that moments do matter. I know that there is so much more to experience. I'm not talking about material things, but the real things that matter and make the difference to those around. I remember setting goals and need to revisit those and see where I am at. I will consider the steps I need to take and begin walking towards the goals that need to be accomplished. Daily, weekly, monthly and even yearly goals. I will begin the first step....now!!!

Freedom

We that live here in the United States of America really take a shine to the word freedom. On a day such as this, the Fourth of July, we feel that "American Pride."  I cannot deny that I am grateful to live within a republic that seems, for the most part, to love the idea of freedom. I know I enjoy freedom. Being able to write this is just one of the many freedoms I can take advantage of. As a follower of Christ, I recognize that Jesus is the one, the only one, to give me complete freedom. But that only began when I was willing to surrender my so called "freedoms" to Christ. The apostle Paul puts it this way...

"For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery." (Galatians 5:1 ESV)

Today as I reflect on freedom, I recognize it is only Christ who sets me free. 

"Stay where you were when God called your name. Were you a slave? Slavery is no roadblock to obeying and believing. I don’t mean you’re stuck and can’t leave. If you have a chance at freedom, go ahead and take it. I’m simply trying to point out that under your new Master you’re going to experience a marvelous freedom you would never have dreamed of. On the other hand, if you were free when Christ called you, you’ll experience a delightful “enslavement to God” you would never have dreamed of."

(1 Corinthians 7:20-22 MSG)

Freedom begins with surrender.

Living water

One word that describes you!

I'm sure that we have heard the question that is the title of this post. Name one word that describes you? Well... What is that word? Is it one that is positive? Negative? Now, in light of whose you are; how will others describe you in one word? What kind of words are you putting out there? When you're driving and the kids are behind you; they could give a honest description of who you are. Or when you decide to post on any type of social media; how would your "friends, followers, etc." describe you. I have to reflect and ask myself.... How would someone answer? If you don't like what you hear from yourself or those around; then it requires me and you to rethink what we are really about. So, I'll ask it again and you can answer in a comment the one word that describes you. Ready, set, go!!!!

A new day

Every morning we awake to the reality of a new day. Let that sink in for just a moment.... This is a day that you can choose your reality. You can either stay where you are at or move forward. What will you choose? I know I have a choice to make!!