Christ Likeness

 Do you remember the bracelets everyone was wearing in the 90's with the initials WWJD? Even those who didn't really believe in Jesus wore those bracelets.

What if instead of wearing these bracelets we actually lived by these initials? If every time we were to do/say something, why not ask ourselves first, what would Jesus do? How much heartache would living by these initials actual spare?

Christ likeness-is it what we aspire to be? If not, it should be. Acting as Christ did in every situation can only do us good. Although this is very difficult to do, I believe just by us trying to follow this rule, can greatly improve our life in many different areas.

Look at the story of the woman at the well in John 4. We all know this story very well. We see how Christ is kind and loving. He didn't make her feel worthless or unwanted. We can take this same act and apply it to those around us who aren't living how Christ would have them to live. We can show love and kindness.

Now if we look at Luke 8. We see the woman who had an issue of blood for 12 years with no healing. At this point in the story Christ was surrounded by many people and on His way to Jairus' house to heal his daughter when a woman touched the hem of his garment to be healed. Christ, being as busy as He was, could've just kept walking and ignored what He felt but He stopped and asked who touched Him. He asked a question that He already knew the answer to and He comforted this woman and made her feel at ease. What if we follow Christ lead and instead of rushing passed others in need, we stopped and helped? What if we took the time to show love and grace? This wouldn't only be a help to the other person but it would help us as well. Many times we don't realize the blessings and encouragement we receive when we give our time to others.

Lastly, If we look at Mark 2 we see the lame man being lowered through the roof. Christ could have said you interrupted my preaching to all these people. Instead He healed the man and forgave his sins. What if when we are interrupted, we take a deep breath and listen to those who have interrupted us. We may never know what we say or do that will be a help to them. Living Christ like is hard. We will never arrive. Thankfully Christ never asks that much of us. He knows we will never reach perfection. He just wants our best.

Philippians 2:2-3 "Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves."

*Remember, you may be the only "Christ" someone else will ever see.

~JuneAnn Miller