A Worthy Goal

A few years ago a very patient sales clerk helped me with an exchange. When she took my credit card, she immediately said, “Oh, are you Cynthia Heald who writes Bible Studies?” I was stunned that she recognized my name and more importantly that she had identified me as a Christian. After acknowledging that I did write studies, we talked briefly and I left the store.

But on my way home I reviewed my behavior during the last half hour of shopping, I asked myself, “Was I kind? Nice? Did I exemplify someone who wrote Bible studies? Was I like Jesus?” It was a humbling experience for I realized that the whole time I was with the clerk I never thought about how I was relating to her as a Christ follower. Although I had walked with the Lord for many years, this experience challenged me to consider: “Am I faithful in representing Jesus’ character to anyone I happen to encounter? Are his heart and ways so ingrained in me that I naturally reflect him to those around me or had I become complacent, needing to be more alert and aware of God’s purpose and work in my life?”

This incident was the motivation I needed to become more intentional in reflecting Christ and in studying the scriptures in order to deepen my commitment to becoming like Jesus. Of course Jesus was sinless, performed miracles, and atoned for the sins of humanity—qualities that cannot be replicated, but I realized that I could imitate Jesus’ communicable characteristics which included holiness, obedience, service, love, and trust in our Father.

John’s instruction to live as Jesus lived is a daunting goal, but one that is clearly stated by the apostle. In his letter to the Roman church, Paul introduced this thought by writing that God’s intended purpose was to conform us to the image of His Son. (Romans 8:29) It is evident that God’s overall master plan is to make us like Jesus as we see here in John’s instruction. To embrace his plan to mold us into Christlikeness makes all the difference in how we live and view our everyday life. To become like Jesus is among the highest and most worthy goals any of us can pursue—a pursuit that is lifelong and ultimately brings glory to God.

Author and pastor Richard L. Strauss wrote this encouraging thought:

Life’s highest goal for the believer is to become like Christ, to allow Him to express more of His character and His attitudes in us. That is how we can fulfill our destiny and bring glory to God.1

Prayer

Father, may my heart be set on being your faithful witness to whoever crosses my path. I desire to be more like Jesus. I place my hand in yours in order to be all you want me to be. May I bring you glory as I reflect you in my everyday life. Amen

1.Richard L. Strauss, Growing More Like Jesus: A Practical Guide to Developing a Christlike Character (Neptune, NJ: Loizeaux Brothers, 1991,) 13.