MONDAY MEDITATION: 3 Non-Negotiable Marks of a Christian (January 5)

A. Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were troubled and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. — Matthew 9:36

B. Adopt the attitude that was in Christ Jesus: Though he was in the form of God, he did not consider being equal with God something to exploit. — Philippians 2:5-6

C. “Look, I’m sending you as sheep among wolves. Therefore, be wise as snakes and innocent as doves.” — Matthew 10:16

How do people recognize us as Jesus followers? It’s less by the faith we profess and more by the way that faith has allowed Jesus to change us. Specifically, that change corresponds to the three above passages.

Scripture A: EMPATHY. If you can’t feel what another person is feeling and be moved by that, don’t pretend you follow Jesus. He was always being moved by what was happening to others. Today he’d be heart-broken by the hard-heartedness on display seemingly everywhere.

Scripture B: HUMILITY. The basis of judgment is thinking you have a corner on truth and can point fingers at others. You have to have humility if you’re going to obey Jesus’ command, “Don’t judge, so that you won’t be judged.” (Matthew 7:1)

Scripture C: CRITICAL THINKING. The beginning of wisdom is asking questions and then questioning the answers. That uncovers evil masquerading as good and wrong masquerading as right. Critical thinking, coming from a base of empathy and humility, is a powerful tool for the Christian and the church.

As the church evolves in a tumultuous time, it will be even more important for the world to know that this is what a Christian looks like. Living empathetically, humbly, and thoughtfully is a small way to offer hope to that world.

What a wonderful New Year’s resolution!