LIVE LOVE LEARN LEAD LEAVE - part 1

Five Common Denominators of True Disciples of Jesus Christ

All too often the challenge of being a Christian comes at such a perceived expense that many choose not to follow the path Jesus trod. And unfortunately for those many who take the broad way, destruction is their final destiny. And while they fly down the broad way of this time proven exit strategy, they rarely if ever realize their eternal decline. It just feels too natural to be wrong.

As I meditate on the comprehensive truth of the biblical knowledge I’ve assimilated (which is actually very little), I realize it’s minimal as compared to the comprehensive truth of God Himself. So as I process what I have and attempt a humble assimilation of more revelation, I’ve come to a conclusion; True Disciples of Jesus Christ will share Five Common Denominators.

Come with me as I explore and express what I believe God has given me for such a time as this: right now.

Knowing that the Bible teaches we are all dead in our trespasses before grace through faith brings saving life, all people start at dead, though they look alive. Yet being physically alive is not the same as living alive in Him. The First Common Denominator of all who choose to follow Him is the call and command to LIVE.

That’s right, live. We’ve been brought to life to live for Him, in Him, and by Him. Anything less is NOT life in Christ. For when we came to know Him as Savior and Lord, there also came the distinct relational call and command to LIVE.

You may find that funny, since we all tend to live in this world. I mean really, if I’m writing this and you’re reading it, you and I must be living; right? Yet what Jesus teaches us takes us to a greater level than just day by day existence here on this planet.

As True Disciples of Jesus Christ we are called and commanded to LIVE. For who would want a religion, let alone a relationship, that did not include of the opportunity to LIVE, despite the fact our earthly home has been tainted by the curse of sin.

Living in Him brings about genuine freedom, never bondage or condemnation. So when was the last time you decided to really LIVE? For some, the idea of living it up in Christ means doing whatever you want with complete amnesty attached to all behaviors. I don’t think that’s the life He’s called and commanded for us; because frankly all things are lawful but not everything is wise or pragmatic.

Yet without knowing it, many Christians live far from the genuine call to LIVE. The kind of living that we are given opportunity in Him is about taking a big slice of life and savoring every bite. It’s about sharing the beauty and taste of all that is good and bearing the burden of others as they taste and experience the ugly of all that is bad. Community, friendships, patience, air, food, rest, snow, green plants, a new born baby, a dearly departed friend, a fast car, a tender letter, a warm blanket, a tasty cup of coffee; need I say more? Do you LIVE or do you simply exist?

For as we LIVE we actually find places where He fits into the life we’ve been given. As I posture NOT for myself, but for the better of others, life turns Kodachrome right before my very eyes. Albeit there are days, I do enjoy the cloister of an empty house, a good book and black coffee, I also enjoy the rabble of friends and family.

If I ever sky dive, I’m sure I would love it. Do you get what I’m saying? Life IN HIM IS GOOD, even when it’s bad. And that’s esoteric. Go and LIVE. Don’t just waste your life, but spend it sowing into others, enjoying all that is good and shun that which is evil. But LIVE. For each of us has only so much time and then we will meet Him face to face and give an account of our lives.