Pastor’s Corner - April 22, 2021
Since the beginning of the year, I have been using these paragraphs to share some of the reasons I follow Jesus. It starts, I suppose, from his gracious invitation to follow and be part of something that adds meaning, purpose, and joy to life. I have not found a more faithful leader than Jesus, who is a humble, forgiving, and kind companion who is always with me. Jesus understands and accepts me. Jesus casts a winsome vision for a life of ultimate well-being and unity in all of creation. Jesus shoulders the heavy lifting for the fulfillment of this vision but makes room for me to be a part of his ministry. Jesus calls us into community so that we can worship, learn, grow, help and serve together.
Today, I offer one more reason I’m a disciple—Jesus brings out the best in me. We all have many roles to fill in our earthly journey. I am a brother, husband, father, grandfather, friend, neighbor, and pastor. Sometimes it feels a little overwhelming to meet the responsibilities of daily life, especially when we are all dealing with global challenges like a pandemic and racial injustice. Sometimes there are so many concerns, needs and distractions that I feel spread too thin and lack focus. That is where having Jesus as a leader has been so helpful. Jesus helps me to keep my priorities straight, so I can stay focused on what matters most. Jesus was very clear: love of God, self and others is what really matters. As a result, I do my best to enter each role and take on each responsibility with a commitment to do what is most loving. I have noticed that when I keep Jesus as my leader and his way of love as my focus everything else has a way of falling into place.
I hope my reasons encourage you to consider why Jesus might be the right leader for you. If you would enjoy a conversation partner on discipleship, please reach out to me.
Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:8)
~Marc
