While I have not read this book, the focal point of whether we are just fans of Jesus (content to sit comfortably and accept salvation) or followers of Jesus (actively pursuing a life dedicated to doing all for Him) has been an issue for me for many years. When we connect our names with Christ, we give up the rights to an easy life. Even before Jesus came down to earth to be born, die on the cross for our sins, and come back to life to conquer death, He suffered for every poor decision made by anyone. His heart was set on saving us from ourselves and there are many occasions where He took action by appearing to guide and direct people.
It has been said that in order to be a good leader, you must first learn how to follow. In knowing how a follower feels, your leading can clarify their path, because you know what they are looking for. We are not asked to follow blindly, for there is more than enough evidence in the Bible to prove the Truth of God's existence. But by actively doing those things prompted by the Holy Spirit, we can also begin to feel what Jesus feels when he does something to help someone. WWJD is a good place to start, but once you have experienced the joy and satisfaction of actually doing a good deed for someone, you get hooked.
Last Sunday, Bron and I visited the grand opening for the West Fort Worth campus for The Hills church in Fort Worth, TX. From the moment we entered, we were made to feel like we were cared for. Since Bron is in a wheelchair, there is more that the usual involved in even getting through a door, but we had people opening the doors, explaining where we could have parked, and assistance in finding the auditorium Sunday morning. These people were actively serving, not waiting for someone to ask for help.
Now skeptics might say, "It was a special occasion" or "That was just the first visit, just wait", but what happened that evening when we returned for the party was what impressed me (and Bron) the most. We arrived early, and since we were new, we knew very few people. (We had talked with a very nice couple after the morning service, as well as the campus minister, but that was the only people we really met.) As we were both contemplating whether we should stay because it seemed like we were out of place, a man came up and introduced himself. He pulled up a chair, and took time getting to know us. It was wonderful to see a total stranger reach out like he did, but what he did next really blew us away. He asked to pray for us, and did not just do a 'general' prayer, but asked for specific things that were needed. During that prayer, he not only asked for the help, he also encouraged us with comments about how he viewed our hearts. He really made us feel like we had been transported in the very throne room of God.
There have been many, many things over the past few months that have occurred to Bron and I that have shown us that Jesus is still there, working on our behalf. But I must say, having this man come to us and pray and say the things he did is what a true follower does. I (we) were already strongly led to go to this church as well as moving to Fort Worth, but this sort of confirmation is a wonderful shot in the arm.
I thank the Lord for His provision in all things we need, and thank all who have been praying for us. May you feel His presence as you follow him.
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