As Christians, we should use the Easter holiday as a time for reflection. Beyond the commercialization of this celebration—the day our Savior, Jesus Christ, arose from the dead—we should take time to contemplate the sacrifice made on our behalf. Indeed, Easter is more than just chocolate bunnies, egg hunts, and a wonderful ham dinner, although those aspects are enjoyable too. It is a remembrance and celebration of the life, death, and resurrection of the Son of God, through whom all sins are forgiven, and salvation is made possible.
Studying the life of Jesus allows us to open our hearts and minds to the perfect example of how we, as human beings, should devote our lives to serving God. Christians should not make excuses to avoid making sacrifices for the same Lord who made the ultimate sacrifice for us. Who among us can truly say that we would give our lives to serve humanity? Many of us would like to think we would, but the truth is that only a small number of people ever do. When difficult times arise, some step up and perform acts of heroism, while others may flee. No one can be certain what they would do until faced with such a situation. Christ faced this very dilemma, and Scripture tells us that He wrestled with the realization that He had to die for the salvation of mankind. Ultimately, He accepted His fate and was crucified.
I’m not suggesting that any of us will be called to die for our faith, yet we know many have done just that. What I’m really getting at is the idea that as Christians, we should make sacrifices in our lives in the name of Jesus. Honestly, being a person of faith in the modern world is a challenging path to follow. Every day, countless distractions try to pull us away from serving God. We all have jobs, families, amusing cat videos, Star Wars, and an overwhelming array of multimedia and technology that keeps us occupied. Let’s be honest: most people wouldn’t set their phones down for even five minutes to watch their own children play, let alone take the time to tell someone about Jesus. I’m not saying this to condemn anyone; I am just as guilty of this behavior. But isn’t that the point?
I am reminded of the story of the late Chuck Johnson (Cross-Carrier Chuck), who began a lifelong journey in 1987 to tell people about Jesus. After being baptized in San Jose, he decided to devote his life to the service of the Lord by giving up all his possessions and walking the roads and highways of this country, carrying an eight-foot replica of the cross. Every day of his life, he walked for miles and shared the message of Jesus. He had no job and no money, yet the Lord provided for him, clothing him, feeding him, and allowing him to stay in hotels most nights. How is this possible? God is true to His word and provides.
Who among us would dare to do that?
I can’t honestly say that I could. I know I should, but I can't. I am human, with fears and apprehensions—things that prevent me from dropping my life and wandering the Earth like Caine in Kung Fu. Deep down, I know that God would provide for me, just as He does for my family and me now. Still, I can’t bring myself to take that leap.
Maybe it’s because I love my comic book collection too much?
The point is, God doesn’t call each of us to make enormous sacrifices to serve Him. He understands our weaknesses, and through Christ’s sacrifice, He forgives us for them. Sometimes, the smallest acts can be the most significant. As it is written, even the tiniest seed can grow into the largest tree.
Take time in your life to reflect on the life and sacrifice of Jesus. Make time to pray and seek God’s teachings and will. Stay open to opportunities to serve and share your faith and beliefs with others.
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