"Living Different"

 "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness and patience" - Colossians 3:12

As is the case many days, I looked to the date to give me some inspiration, and googled Bible 3:12.  The words above are words we are called to - but living that way is often very hard.  Yet, when I think of some of my favorite people - those are qualities they embody.  Those are the qualities of Jesus.

The Bible tells us that we are each made in God's image.  Therefore, the person we were made to be is someone who shows compassion, kindness, and patience; someone who is willing to forget their pride, and forego their righteousness.  But without the help of the Holy Spirit working in our hearts and minds and souls, I don't believe it is possible.

So - how do we do that....get the Holy Spirit?  Acts 2:38 tells us:  

"And Peter said to them, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."

When I was young my parents had me baptized and I am glad for it, however it wan't a choice that I made.  But, when I was 55 I was baptized a second time, and this time it was something I chose to do as an outward sign that I wanted to die to self, and live with Christ.

Emerging from the water that day, my life tilted on its axis.

In that moment did I miraculously become the person God made me to be?  No, but I am changing and I know it.  In surrendering my life to Him I have never felt more happy, more secure, more loved, or more peaceful.  

There is an old saying, "Let Go, and Let God"... it is probably the best advice ever given, and if it is not something you have done yet - I urge you to consider the difference it might make in your life.

As a bonus today for those of you reading, I wanted to share that the folks who are doing the "JESUS GETS US" campaign you might have seen during the superbowl are giving out free t-shirts and hats.  You can get yours at this link.He Gets Us Gear

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