May 23, 2017 Tuesday)
Yesterday’s blog was about the bridge; today’s blog is about the road. Jesus said, “I am the way.” The word, “way,” can be translated, “road.” For many in the early years of the Christian faith, it meant following Jesus into times of suffering. Christians suffered as a pagan state declared their beliefs to be illegal. The apostle Peter wrote to the suffering Christians, “If anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God” (1 Peter 4:16).
THE CHRISTIAN ROAD
1. A HARD ROAD FOR SOME
Many early Christians suffered for their faith. They became outcasts,
branded as criminals, persecuted, tortured and murdered. In recent
months and years, we have learned about Christians being put to
death in other countries simply because they were Christians.
2. A HAPPY ROAD FOR MANY
Among the items listed as “fruit of the Spirit,” Paul mentions “joy.” It is coupled with peace and includes love. Added to those virtues are patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. What we have when we put it all together is the Christian life, a happy life. (Galatians 5:22-23)
3. A HIGH ROAD FOR ALL
We are saved by grace, and not by works, but we demonstrate our faith
with our works. Christians are created in Christ Jesus to glorify God in
their daily lives. We are clothed with the righteousness of Christ, and have
the high and holy privilege of living for Jesus a life well-pleasing to Him.
There’s an old, old road
By an old, old cross,
And its way is narrow and straight.
But it leads up home
To the Great White Throne
Where the saints in glory wait.
–B. B. McKinney