Proudly "Christian"

 Devotions for November 24, 2020

 

Prayer

King Jesus, you are a different kind of king. There is no one in all of history that leads like you. You use your love and your power. We submit ourselves to your Way and for the sake of your Gospel. May your glory reign over us fully. Extend your care beyond all those we lift before you and use us to make that happen. In your great name, we pray. Amen.

2 Timothy 2:8-13

Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David—that is my gospel, for which I suffer hardship, even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But the word of God is not chained. Therefore, I endure everything for the sake of the elect, so that they may also obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory. The saying is sure: If we have died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him; if we deny him, he will also deny us; if we are faithless, he remains faithful— for he cannot deny himself.

 

Reflection

Sometimes I wonder how people figure that they can proudly tout the label “Christian” when they don’t show any amount of self-denial. Not that I have it all perfected, but the contrast is alarming. The word “Christ” means “anointed (one)” and is the Greek version of the Hebrew word “Messiah.” It is a title, not a last name. Jesus earned it in a way that was terrifyingly opposite to expected predictions. Ironically, “Expected One” is another interpretation. What was expected was not that the Messiah’s followers would struggle and strive through chains, beatings and death. The Cross changed our perspective and understanding of God entirely. Since he suffered and died in order to absorb sin and death, his followers are supposed to be meek and absorbing. He taught that if we want to follow him, we pick up our cross and do it. We take on suffering in order to overcome it. We are called into participating in the difficult work for justice. This is how you can tell the difference between authentic Christianity and the nationalistic or similar distortions. Love and care for others over self is another tell-tale sign of those who like to be in prayer with Jesus of Nazareth.