Add value

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth… “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Matthew 5:3-5, 7-8.

What are you bringing to the party?

Your charming, fun-loving personality? Your oversized wallet? Your favorite deep-dish pizza? Your over-the-top wisdom?

What about us Christ-Followers?

Those of us who are poor in spirit. Who are meek and mourn. Who are pure in heart and seek peace.

Jesus gave us the Kingdom of God manifesto recorded in Matthew chapters 5 to 8. For those who seek to walk under the auspices of God’s Kingdom, these are our marching orders. Each point emphasizes the way to live under a grace-paced life. For most people initially introduced to the Sermon on the Mount, they would say impossible. Life isn’t that way.

Yet Jesus lived it. Practiced the life with His disciples. Who likewise over time practiced and taught the same Way to others.

Living life under the umbrella of God’s Kingdom is counter intuitive. It is the ideal that humanity desires but lack the courage to practice. For unless one surrenders their kingdom to the Lord of Lords, they are correct. But when one captures the vision of Jesus’ gospel message, everything changes. Repentance leads one to accept Jesus as the Lord of their kingdom. One then surrenders their kingdom under the domain of God’s Kingdom. The relief allows them to begin participating within the Triune God’s inner circle of life.

The value they now bring to the party is not themselves. But the message, love, and hope of God’s way and purpose of life. The Spirit within them doesn’t allow them to hide under a deceptive façade. Instead they have been given the privilege of sharing God’s truth and Spirit with others. Even if they kept their tongue tied, their walk and mannerism would shout the love and joy they carry with them.

The value they add in the lives of others is giving them a taste of Kingdom living. Others see and desire to share in the same bountifulness. You become a walking billboard of the Kingdom of God on earth today.

They get to witness what a real Christ-Follower brings to every party. The Spirit of love, joy, and peace. The hope of glory. A Way of life that enriches self and others. A life with purpose and meaning. The opportunity to meet someone who knows Jesus, HIS Father, and the Holy Spirit. Plus God’s transformational power to enrich one’s soul on earth now.

God has a plan for humanity. You are included. So why not accept HIS finished work and take part in the preparation of the largest party this world will ever see.

It all probably began because someone added value in your life at the last party…

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

^{Faith-Integrator, Encourager, Scribbler}

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“We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,” (Colossians 1:9)

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 7:12

God is brilliant. Here Jesus gives us a proactive approach to Kingdom Living. Another way to guide us in our relationship with one another. Instead of making God, or the Law, or a Teacher the point of reference, HE makes our self the measuring stick.

Do for others what you would like to have done for you. In other words, treat others the way you would like to be treated.

Imagine if you took this approach today. How would your day go? Why not give it a try?

You may have a full day already planned, but others always have a way to interrupt you. So instead of quickly getting rid of them so you can complete your task, stop and focus on their situation. Ask yourself, or better yet, ask them how can you help them at the moment.

If driving to work and that car next to you wants to get in front of you, you know how that feels. How about deliberately slowing down? Wouldn’t you want someone to give you an easier opportunity to get over in a similar situation?

What if your co-worker enjoys a good cup of coffee like you do? Why not buy one of her favorites while you are pumping gas at the local convenience store?

Remember those early days when you were afraid to speak up in a meeting? What if at today’s meeting you noticed one of your quiet associates fidgeting? You know they have something to add but is always interrupted by more aggressive persons? Why not step in and directly ask him if he has anything to add to the conversation?

Someone may ask a favor from you today. Instead of weighting all the consequences and getting back with them, why not just jump in this time?

If you notice someone standing along and looking confused, don’t rush by them. Instead, take a minute and ask if they need any help.

If an elderly person enters the room and there are no more seats available, how about offering yours?

So why not make today a test day of practicing the golden rule? See how you can add value in another person’s life. It may be awkward at first. But with practice you will find yourself becoming more attune to the needs of others. You will learn the art of serving the Kingdom Way.

And who knows? You may even start a movement which impacts everyone in your corner of the world. Jesus did. And it is still going on.

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Faith-Integrator, Encourager, Scribbler

“We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,” (Colossians 1:9)
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