Still Learning

By Brian Turner

“Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do if for them. Add up God’s law and Prophets and this is what you get.”
–Matthew 7:12, The Message

I have always thought of myself as being “in.” I felt a sense of pride about being a believer, having found the way of salvation. I was happy being “in”; I was content that everyone else was “out.” I have often thought of myself as better than others because I was Christian. Of this attitude, I repent.

I am learning that the way of Jesus hasn’t quite been the way I have always supposed. The way of Christ is not about being “in” or “out.” I am not superior to anyone. I am not above others who are unbelievers. I am not better or more privileged than others who belong to another faith. We are all part of humanity—a humanity created in the image of God. I am to be a friend of all people.

I am learning to see people, regardless of who they are, as people whom I love and share life with. This friendship is a reciprocal relationship. I am sometimes a giver, even a blessing; other times I am the receiver. There is no superiority or arrogance. This is part of what it means to follow Jesus. I am to give, I am to receive. And all this giving and receiving is shared with all people.

I am to love. I am to be a friend. This is the Kingdom life.

____________________

Brian Turner is a follower of Jesus, a husband, and a father of three kids, and three dogs. He blogs at www.thewayofthenudge.com.