Living for Christ

As I said, the past ten months for me have been a whirlwind of pain, challenge, and growth. For myself and some of my dear friends. I decided to step down as High School Sunday School teacher. Our Bible Study has been on hiatus for the last month. I'm still finding out how God wants to use me in Africa.

With everything I've been feeling, I was wondering "what does it mean to be a good Christian?" As I was looking I found this passage:

^"Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil" 1 Peter 3:13-17 [NIV]

I was thinking about this. At first glance, I didn't think my sufferings were as a result of my devotion to Christ. It's not like I was on a street corner quoting Bible verses. But the more I thought about it, I changed my mind. Christ's love for me has forever changed my heart, and therefore changed my life. Even "small" decisions in my life are ultimately a reflection of the love I have received through salvation. And rightfully so. Is it really appropriate to assume that sufferings are not a result of my devotion to Christ then? I'm not so sure. If anything, I'd guess that there are circumstances where it might be difficult to "connect the dots" back to Christ, but that ultimately that is where they do all go.

Ironically, my last trial challenged my spirit in an area that I would consider to be weak in my Christian faith. It involved making a very bold decision. I am by no means bold. Brash? sometimes. Loud? I can be. But bold? Nope. I much prefer to be the shrinking violet that goes unnoticed in the corner. No waves or ripples here. This particular decision, in my opinion, didn't involve making ripples or waves, but it did involve putting myself out there and taking a huge risk. It didn't end how I had envisioned, but part of me is starting to think that it is better than I had planned anyway. I've been watching the movie "Something Borrowed" [humor me...] I was a huge fan of the book which, despite the questionable behavior of characters, is an interesting examination of the human heart along with what we prioritize and how we limit ourselves based on the perception of others. Anyway... there is a scene at the beginning of the movie where Darcy is giving a speech about her friendship with Rachel, whom is celebrating her 30th birthday. A poignant moment in the speech is when Darcy says that Rachel is the reason she can go so fearlessly into the world, "because she (Rachel) is always there. She is always, always there." I love that line, because it is so true! Except insert me(you) as Darcy and Christ as Rachel. Christ is always there. To pick us up when we have fallen. To energize us and tell us "try again." To help us grow into more kind, caring human beings.

I had said I was going to step down as High School Sunday School teacher. Then our classes (Jr & Sr High) were to stay combined. (Stress #1: new class dymanics.) Then our pastor announced his departure from our church. (Stress #2: uncertainty about our Church.) New Youth Group leadership. (Stress #3: new "management", new rules, etc) And no one stepped up to replace me. (Stress #4: overwhelming the other two teachers) High School is stressful enough. I hope that by staying on for another semester I can provide some stability to the class.

Bible Study starts up again this weekend.

Africa plans should be coming to fruition sooner than I can imagine.