"The Next Level"

Like James and John most of us have gotten the message... well some of it anyway. We acknowledge Jesus as our Savior, and we hope to share in his kingdom. But it's long past time for many of us to take being a Christian up to the next level. Like the apostles, Jesus has a double barrelled message for us. We too must drink from the cup. No one passes through this life unscathed. Disease, disappointment, heartbreak, physical, mental and emotional suffering...to one degree or another, they are our common lot. They can make us or break us, depending on how closely we cling to Jesus. The second part of the message is an explanation of exactly what it means to follow Jesus. It is a life of serving, not a life of being served.

While we may not be ready for this level of perfection, we can take the first step. Let's start with a simple attitude adjustment. Listen more, talk less. Try understanding. Try forgiving. Try seeing things from the other person's point of view. Try not to take offense. Stop trying to convince everyone that you're the smartest guy in the room. Start bringing energy, encouragement and affirmation to everyone you encounter today. Start helping and do it humbly. Consciously make being an active loving Christian the focus of your day. Then wake up tomorrow and do it again.
 
Get it? Good… you're on your way to understanding what it means to be a Christian. Welcome to the next level.
 

God love you,