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Article Archive |
2009
Stones, Strangers & Servants
by Jim Morris
Each day we find shortcomings in our lives and wish to do better. Don’t we all need second chances to become better people? However, what does a “better person” really look like?
In 1896, Charles M. Sheldon wrote, “In His Steps.” He vividly portrayed what a “better person” looks like. Of course, that better person looks like Jesus. In his book, several characters pledged for a year not to do anything without first asking the question, “What would Jesus do?” Those who accepted the challenge found that imitating Jesus brought misunderstanding, conflict and suffering into their lives. And yet, it also filled them with unspeakable joy!
Charles Sheldon got his idea about “personal transformation” in 1 Peter chapter 2. In short, Jesus always intended for us to follow His example. Yet, how is this possible? Look at Jesus. He is perfect. He is the sinless One--the Savior. Look at us. We are a mess. Our sins cling to us like filth so that we are in constant need of cleansing and a Savior. How can we follow Jesus in His steps? Fortunately, when we accept the roles of Stones, Strangers, and Servants it becomes easier to walk in His steps.
First, we must come to Jesus willing to be “living STONES” fitted into His spiritual house (2:4-8). Jesus is the Cornerstone. To God, Jesus is chosen and precious. To unbelievers, Jesus is a stone of stumbling. To believers, Jesus, as the Cornerstone, gives us the direction and purpose of God’s will that we need. We are living rough hewn stones that Jesus selected. He continues to clean, shape and place us in His spiritual house.
Second, we must come to Jesus willing to become “aliens and STRANGERS in the world” (2:11-12). As God’s people, we must be different from all others. We must abstain from sinful desires and live exceptionally good lives. By doing so we appear very strange to the world. However, when Jesus comes again we will be vindicated as His “chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God” (2:9).
Third, we must come to Jesus willing to become “SERVANTS of God” (2:13-25). We must be obedient to God and longsuffering with men. By doing good we “silence the ignorant talk of foolish men” (2:15). By bearing up under unjust suffering we are commended before God (2:20). Jesus accomplished the Father’s will and yet suffered on the cross at the hands of men for us. He asks us to follow His example so that we die to sin and live to righteousness.
As we face decisions each day, let us first ask Sheldon’s question, “What would Jesus do?” Can we accept the roles of Stones, Strangers & Servants so that we can walk in His steps? Peter says, “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps” (2:21).
03-04-09
# 09
