Following the example of Jesus of 2000+ years ago, might be inconvenient in today’s time because his teachings were based on principles and values that might not always align with the complexities of today's modern life.
The sacrifice Jesus made is a powerful example and reminder of the importance of repentance, forgiveness, and transformation. His teachings emphasize the need for individuals to turn away from wrongdoing, seek reconciliation with God and others, and strive for righteousness and holiness.
To be Christlike involves not only recognizing and repenting of our mistakes but also actively seeking to align our thoughts, words, and actions with the teachings and example of Jesus.
This process includes cultivating virtues such as love, compassion, humility, forgiveness, integrity, resisting temptation, and striving to live a life of service and devotion to God and others.
Jesus’ teachings often challenged the religious and political authorities of his time, advocating for love, justice, compassion, and the Kingdom of God. Are we fighting against those not serving freedom, justice, and equality?
The colonizers that misrepresented the Image and likeness of Jesus didn't teach Christlike values because Jesus represented freedom.
Jesus was a revolutionary figure. Jesus confronted the abuses of power and authority, advocating for the marginalized and denouncing hypocrisy and injustice among the ruling class and religious leaders.
Jesus preached about the arrival of the Kingdom of God, a spiritual realm characterized by righteousness, peace, and reconciliation, challenging earthly systems of power and dominance.
Jesus taught principles that emphasized the interconnectedness of humanity and the importance of unity and mutual support.
In Matthew 25:40, Jesus states, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” This teaching underscores the idea that actions taken to help or support others are ultimately beneficial not only to individuals but to the entire community.
Faith is judged by our actions, not what we say. James 2:17: “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” In Islam, the Quran emphasizes the significance of righteous deeds as a manifestation of faith, stating, “Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer - We will surely cause him to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward (in the Hereafter) according to the best of what they used to do” (Quran 16:97).
Faith is often judged by how it translates into compassionate actions, ethical behavior, and positive contributions to the world.
The sacrifice Jesus made doesn't mean we continue to do wrong. To be Christ-like is to clean ourselves up!
Jesus’ arrest, trial, and crucifixion are commonly understood as a consequence of his challenging the status quo and speaking truth to power. His willingness to confront injustice and oppression ultimately led to his persecution and execution by the Roman authorities, with the collusion of confident religious leaders. We have leaders today who speak truth to power and demonstrate the meaning of faith and courage.
In Matthew 16:24, Jesus says, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” Similarly, in Mark 8:34 and Luke 9:23, Jesus gives a similar instruction to his disciples. Are we disciples of Jesus?
Picking up our cross involves denying ourselves by prioritizing the will of God and the needs of others over our desires and self-interests.
Just as Jesus willingly sacrificed himself for the sake of others, picking up our cross involves being willing to endure hardship, suffering, and self-denial for the sake of our faith and the well-being of others.
Commit to following Jesus’ teachings and example, even when it’s difficult or unpopular, and be willing to persevere in the face of opposition or adversity.
In closing, picking up our cross symbolizes a willingness to live a life of selflessness, obedience, and sacrificial love in imitation of Jesus. It’s a call to wholeheartedly embrace the demands and responsibilities of discipleship, regardless of the personal cost.
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