What Did Jesus Do?

WWJD. What Would Jesus Do? Have you ever seen those bracelets or bumper stickers? That campaign spread like wildfire in its day. It was an interesting premise: you live your life like the Lord Jesus would. You make decisions based on what you think Jesus would do. Sort of like Jiminy Cricket and Always let your conscience be your guide, but with a biblical slant. But, it sometimes gave a false impression: Oh, So-and-So was wearing a WWJD lanyard; she's a Christian. Umm, no. And I'm not sure it really led anyone to commit to a relationship with Jesus, just imitate Him. I grew up watching Rich Little. He could do some amazing impersonations of other stars, but I'm not sure he had loving, committed relationships with each and every one. If he did, he was one busy guy! There's a distinct difference between mimicking someone's behavior and knowing that they love you so much they are willing to pull you up to be all they know you can be. More important than asking What Would Jesus Do?, I think we need to challenge people to answer the question, What DID Jesus do? 

When Scott and I began dating, I was emerging from one of the worst periods of my life: suicidal ideations, depression, bulimia, domestic abuse, alcohol abuse. I was a hot mess, but he saw something in me, something that made me want to be what he saw. I didn't simply want to bring his vision to life, to imitate the character he imagined; I wanted to become the diamond he already saw under all that rock. He called me "Beautiful," and I wanted to be a more beautiful person. He called me smart and loving, and I wanted to be those things. And it was because of the way he built me up --not just with vain words or flattery, but with a clear vision into who I was under all that gunk-- that I fell in love with him and I feel more in love with Jesus. I could see Jesus in him because that's what Jesus does.

Jesus gave His life so that we can have an eternal life, not just with an eye on "never ending," but an eye on "forever." Living in such a way as to do the things that will last forever. Living in such a way as to make a difference forever. Living in such a way as to celebrate and enjoy all we are given forever. Living in such a way that the eternal characteristics of Jesus' life are recreated in the way we live today. Living in such a way as to bring others into seeking a forever life. Living in such a way that, like ripples on the water when a pebble is cast, our love, our life, our kindness, our joy go on forever because of Jesus. He calls us to more because He called us to forever. That's what Jesus did.