Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. - Ephesians 5:15-16 (NIV)
A giant portrait hangs on the wall - just above eye level - it has been there so long, no one hardly notices it anymore. The image shows a tall handsome man in a white gown walking through a meadow of flowers. His hair is long he appears to be wearing a baby blue sash... or outer wrapping. Something like a shawl or scarf draped over his shoulder. Have you seen this picture?
The picture of Jesus Christ hanging in lobbies, vestibules, foyers, homes... usually looks like this guy... sometimes with a cute, spotless lamb in his arms. Where did this version of Jesus enter the picture? Historians attribute these paintings to the renaissance artists in Europe. But does it fit the image of Jesus Christ described in scripture? Not quite.
Jesus Christ was counter cultural. He swam against the current. He pushed back. He spoke with confidence and authority. He never backed down from righteousness. He fought through adversity and negative stereotypes to bring light to the truth. He was relentless and remains in constant pursuit of every man, woman, and child.
Christians are not asked, but required to walk like Jesus. He came to show us the path, the steps, the process... the way. If we call ourselves disciples of Christ - then we must be fierce. While we each see Jesus through our own interpretation, we must be diligent to take in the whole picture of Jesus. Read the gospels and “listen” to the characteristics of Christ. Watch the complete picture of Jesus emerge. It takes incredible fortitude to love the unlovable. It takes determination to go against the grain. It takes relentless commitment to carry the gospel into all nations - especially to those who hate you.
THE RIGHT NEXT STEP
What is your image of Christ and does that image shape the way you serve?
PRAY:
God, you have given me a powerful image of your Son through your inspired writing. Remind me to search the life of Him to find his image rather than a portrait hanging on the wall. Give me the courage to be relentless. Amen.
