In the eyes of the world, it is not our relationship with Jesus Christ that counts; it is our resemblance to Him!

Good Monday afternoon, my friends.

My lovely wife, Rosemary, is participating in a Bible study on the book of Esther.  She put me on to this quote by Ray Stedman in his book "The Queen and I: Studies in Esther":

When, because of your faith, your life too becomes perceptibly different; when your reactions are quite opposite to what the situation seems to call for and your activities can no longer be explained in terms of your personality; that is when your neighborhood will sit up and take notice. In the eyes of the world, it is not our relationship with Jesus Christ that counts; it is our resemblance to Him!

As important as our relationship is with Christ - indeed is is of utmost importance for our own salvation - that is NOT what will attract others into a similar relationship.  

Look at this description of first-century Christians:

The Letter to Diognetus, the work of an unknown author, written in about 130, describes Christians to the Romans as follows: "They dwell in their own countries simply as sojourners.... They are in the flesh, but they do not live after the flesh. They pass their days on earth, but they are citizens of heaven. They obey the prescribed laws, and at the same time, they surpass the laws by their lives. They love all men but are persecuted by all. They are unknown and condemned. They are put to death, but [will be] restored to life. They are poor, yet they make many rich. They possess few things; yet, they abound in all. They are dishonored, but in their very dishonor are glorified.... And those who hate them are unable to give any reason for their hatred." (From http://www.earlychurch.com/index.php)

We attract others to the faith by the way we live amongst our friends, neighbours, and co-workers.  And this is especially true if the way we live defies explanation.  What a challenge.  Are we prepared to take it on?

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Bruce

Father, we don't pray for a life of ease since we know that virtues listed in Scripture are often refined in our lives through the challenges, the overcomings, the mistakes and the hours we spend in prayer seeking You above all else. 

May the nature of Christ be much more visible than our human nature so that we are truly a reflection of Your image that is stamped deep in our hearts. 

We desire to "follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and meekness" so that we are truly fruitful in our pursuit of holiness. 

Amen.

(http://adailyprayer.wordpress.com/2009/06/23/a-prayer-for-christ-like-character/)

Bruce MacPherson  macpherson@celtic.ca / Blog: The Celtic Christian / Home: 613.489.4174 Cell: 613.720.0821 You are receiving this email because you have requested it or I felt you would be interested in this material. If you would like to be removed from this email list, please do not hesitate to contact me at the above email address.  Likewise, if you know of someone else who you believe would appreciate receiving these messages, please let me know.