Using contemporary language, while attempting to capture the depth and vitality of the original words that moved and inspired early believers in Jesus, Eugene Peterson translated Hebrews 12:2-3 this way: Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how He did it. Because He never lost sight of where He was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—He could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now He’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility He plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls! (The Message).
Over the years, I’ve grown to more deeply appreciate the importance of studying how Jesus boldly lived out His convictions (Philippians 2:6-8). I’m often instructed and deeply moved by His surprising acts of compassion, by His strength to confront injustice, and by His willingness to suffer for a greater good.
I can now better see that my favorite class in Bible college—“The Life of Christ”—wasn’t so much about the teacher as it was the topic. While my teacher was excellent (thank you, Mike Sullivan!), the subject was even better! Simply put, Jesus is the most captivating figure to ever walk the face of the earth.
Going over Jesus’ life is more than just an academic or intellectual exercise. This is not about getting pumped full of information so you can pass an exam or sound “spiritual.” It’s about becoming personally acquainted, captured, and loved by the One whose life, death, and resurrection changed everything (Philippians 2:9-11).
Celebrate the life of Jesus “detail by detail.” Soak it in. His reality will “shoot adrenaline” into your heart.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: 1 Kings 21:1-29
More:
Read Galatians 2:20 to better understand what the depth of our identity with Jesus should be.
Next:
Why is it vital for us to frequently read the Gospels and meditate on Jesus’ words and actions? How has He inspired you today?
lindagma on April 21, 2011 at 6:58 am
I was saved at 16 but in a church that did little to teach how to have a personal walk with Christ. When troubles hit, I decided I didn’t need God, I could handle it myself. At 35, I was introduced to an evangelical church and a whole new perspective. At first, I was just going through the motions…until I watched a movie at Easter time and saw what Christ had done for me. The tears flowed and I surrendered to Him. There has been much growth and witnessing God working in my life since then…but thank you for this reminder. We can certainly get through anything…even complacency…with a reminder of Christ’s strength and focus on His purpose and final place with the Father.This was a shot of adrenaline.
winn collier on April 21, 2011 at 8:07 am
This nearness and intimacy gets to the heart of what it means for us that God came to us in human flesh, doesn’t it? God came near so that we can be near.
Sonny on April 21, 2011 at 12:01 pm
Many have asked what is missing in my Life? In my life I’ve asked that same question! This is what I’ve found to be true in my search: Purpose, meaning, a reason for living – these are all things we desire and search for in life. Despite steps each one of us takes to find purpose and meaning in life, we still feel empty, unfulfilled. That is because there is a spiritual emptiness in each of our lives. We each have a hole in our heart, a spiritual vacuum deep within our soul – a “God-shaped blank.” Possessions on’t fill this hole, nor will success. Relationships alone cannot satisfy this emptiness, and morality, in and of itself, falls miserably short of occupying this space. In fact, even religion cannot fill the void in our heart.
There is but “One” who can only fill that void and His name is “Jesus.” The greatest demonstration of Love (read Romans 5:6-8) is that Jesus did not die for us while we were his friends, but while we were His enemies, opposing Him by our sinfulness. Yet, in spite of all of this, God demonstrated His Love for us by dying on the cross in our place. In this verse I believe, the apostle Paul explains that Jesus did not simply die for humanity as a whole, but that he died for us as individuals. Whenever you or I are tempted to doubt God’s Love for us, take a long look at the cross on which Jesus died. Then realize that, for all practical purposes, it was not the nails that held him to the cross, but LOVE.
While we all get ready to celebrate “Resurrection Sunday,” let’s remember to share that LOVE with those He came down to show LOVE to. Not just on this occassion, but everyday He gives us an opportunity to do it. Have a blessed day.
aletabugg on April 21, 2011 at 9:00 pm
As I grow in Christ, I am seeing how real it is to live life with Him! For a time, it was out of my reach, but now, as I study the life of Jesus, it is more real! And in everything I do now, I consult with the Father first! I thank You Jesus for your example here on earth!