March 22

The Journey is the Reward

What does it mean to be a Christian? What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus Christ? For me the answer is fundamental and simple. To be a Christian and follower of Jesus Christ means to lead one’s life in a relentless mission to help others.

When we realize that our life is not about our needs but how we can use our resources and wisdom to help others, then life begins to come into focus. For many, the raising of one’s children’s embodies this focus on others. We try to give the youth the benefit of our wisdom and love.

But as the years progress and the children leave home, we begin to wonder why we are here. Is our goal to retire and lounge on the beach? If life is about a bigger car, larger house, or another possession, life is indeed shallow.

My realization that I had so many gifts to share gave my life renewed energy as I work to understand Christianity. The life of Jesus embodies God’s model of how to help your world prosper and survive. Reaching out and assisting those who are in need at both home and abroad embodies what Christianity is all about. Bringing peace and understanding to every situation you find yourself in is the goal.

To grow and recognize our faults and weakness and yet persevere is part of the experience. Watching over us all, guiding us, and forgiving us is the God who we know and love as Christians. Recognizing our personal shortcomings yet committing ourselves to help others makes our lives full.

The journey is long and full of surprises. By maintaining our faith in God and following the example of Jesus Christ, we will find our way. We need to let go of the control we try to maintain and listen better to God as he communicates with us. We need to step into that darkness and trust God as we go forward. We are here to do God’s work. The journey is the reward.

Anonymous