When I was growing up, my parents would tell me that what I did reflected on the whole family. I think that was code for “don’t embarrass us!” I wish I could say I constantly represented them well. But that was not always the case. I told myself, that my actions only reflected on me. Becoming a parent gave me a lot more understanding of that phrase as I found myself repeating the same words to the next generation. In the eyes of others, our actions often define us and those close to us.

The Gospel of Matthew tells of Peter’s response to Jesus when our Lord ask, “who do you say that I am?” Peter responds, “you are the Messiah, the son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16).

So, what do we say if someone asked us about Jesus? We have our basic answers, often, Savior or Son of God. But does this really tell them about who Jesus is in our life? What if they asked about the meaning of being a Christian? Some of us are fortunate enough to have had our faith a long time. Hopefully, long enough to know Jesus as more than a title. Or, maybe it has been so long that we have forgotten what it means to claim the name of Jesus as our Savior, or that He is the Son of God. So, what would you say to a stranger or a friend who suddenly asked you who is Jesus?

I find it is a good spiritual practice for Christians to think about why we call ourselves Christian. To sit down with Christ and ask what does it mean to me that you are my salvation? Another important question to talk over, pray over, does my life reflect Jesus to the world? As confessing Christians, how does our life define Jesus to the world?

I think it can be a tough question to ask; but it is a good one. After all, I know I do not want God to think I’m embarrassing the family! 

May the Grace and Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you!

Pastor Rick