We’ve been in a series of readings lately dealing with how we should live. Many people might think, “I don’t want to be told how to live, I want to live my life the way I want.” Other people are looking for the kind of living that will please God because they have a truly thankful heart. Thankful for all that God has done for them, and continues to do on a daily basis. God loves us all no matter what way we think. I don’t know about you, but I want to please my God, and that’s not just because I’m a “people pleaser.” With God, it goes so much deeper.
For those who follow Jesus and want to be more like him, a passage like this is refreshing. We should be all about pleasing God. We can’t be sinless like Jesus, but we can choose to behave in ways that honor God. For those people who are a little stubborn or don’t have a relationship with God, hearing how to please him may not matter at all.
I’ve been thinking a lot about a life without Jesus. I can’t imagine it. Even when I was in a relationship that kept me from going to church, I prayed. I knew there was a God who loved me. I even felt guilty when I stopped going to church. Then it soon became a habit to sleep in on Sunday mornings. I was walking around feeling empty. There was something I was missing but I couldn’t put my finger on it. I’m so glad those days are behind me. But they aren’t for everybody.
Having been married to a pastor these past 19 years, going to church was what we did. It’s there that I learned more about what it meant to live like Jesus. This passage is clear, “For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.” Jesus is our example. We can look to his teaching and leadership to know. There are so many clues in the Bible, too.
How do we know how to follow if we don’t know who we’re following?
We have been given so much. We have been washed clean and given a new future. It is important to remember where we have come from as well. It can give us insights on how to reach those people who don’t yet know. They are still walking around feeling lost and empty. Maybe they have just strayed like sheep. I did, after all. I am thankful I had the basis to bring me back. We need to provide that for those who don’t have it.
Let’s pray. Lord, I pray for those sheep of yours who have strayed. You love them more than ever and want desperately for them to return to you. Use me and others to help them find their way. Give me the right words to say. Help me to live a life that is pleasing to you. May I be more and more like Jesus every day. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
