Living as Jesus: A Call to Moral Action

Devotional

Day 1: Jesus as Our Moral Compass

Jesus' life serves as a profound moral example, teaching us to live with love, integrity, and selflessness. His actions and teachings guide us to embody the image of God within us, inspiring us to reflect God's character in our daily lives. By observing how Jesus interacted with others, we learn the importance of compassion, humility, and service. His life challenges us to move beyond self-centeredness and embrace a life of self-giving, where our actions are aligned with the values of the kingdom of God. [19:35]

"Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor." (Romans 12:9-10, ESV)

Reflection: Identify one area in your life where you struggle to live with integrity. How can you take a step today to align your actions with the teachings of Jesus in that area?

Day 2: The Ripple Effect of Selfless Love

Just as Christopher Robin's act of love inspired others, Jesus' life inspires us to initiate change through selfless actions. Our individual efforts can create a ripple effect, leading others towards love and righteousness. When we choose to act selflessly, we not only transform our own lives but also influence those around us, encouraging them to act with kindness and compassion. This chain reaction of love and integrity can have a profound impact on our communities, drawing people closer to the values of the kingdom of God. [27:58]

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)

Reflection: Think of a small act of kindness you can do today that might inspire others. How can you be intentional about creating a ripple effect of love in your community?

Day 3: Courage to Stand Against Injustice

Figures like Rosa Parks and Oscar Romero, inspired by Jesus, demonstrate the impact of standing against injustice. Their courage and moral fortitude remind us of the power of living out our faith with conviction and courage. By following Jesus' example, we are called to confront societal wrongs and advocate for justice and righteousness. This requires us to be bold in our faith, willing to take a stand even when it is difficult, trusting that our actions can contribute to meaningful change in the world. [34:36]

"Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy." (Proverbs 31:8-9, ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on a social issue that you feel passionate about. What is one concrete step you can take this week to advocate for justice in that area?

Day 4: Advocacy as a Reflection of Faith

Engaging in acts of advocacy, such as supporting food programs, reflects our commitment to living as Jesus taught. These actions are part of the transformative work of the kingdom of God, embodying the light of Christ in the world. By actively participating in advocacy, we demonstrate our faith in action, showing that we are not only hearers of the word but doers as well. This commitment to justice and compassion is a tangible expression of our desire to see God's kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven. [48:27]

"Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?" (Isaiah 58:6-7, ESV)

Reflection: Consider how you can support a local advocacy initiative. What is one action you can take this week to contribute to a cause that aligns with the teachings of Jesus?

Day 5: Carrying the Light of Christ

We are called to carry the light of Christ into our homes, workplaces, and communities. By living out our best selves, inspired by Jesus, we contribute to transforming the world and spreading the good news of the kingdom. This involves being intentional about how we reflect Christ's love and grace in our interactions with others, ensuring that our lives are a testament to the transformative power of the gospel. As we embody the light of Christ, we become beacons of hope and encouragement to those around us. [57:06]

"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 5:14-16, ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on how you can be a light in your community today. What is one practical way you can demonstrate the love and grace of Christ to those around you?

Sermon Summary

In this third Sunday of Lent, we gather to explore the profound ways Jesus serves as our Savior, focusing on His role as a moral example. As we prepare our hearts for Easter through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, we reflect on how Jesus teaches us to live a life of love, integrity, and selflessness. Jesus' life is a testament to kingdom living, calling us to shift from self-centeredness to self-giving. Through His actions and teachings, Jesus provides a model for moral and ethical living, inspiring us to embody the image of God within us.

The children's game of "Simon Says" serves as a metaphor for how Jesus instructs us to act consistently with His teachings, whether through His words or His actions. This lesson is further illustrated by the story of Christopher Robin in "The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh," where a single act of selfless love inspires a chain reaction of kindness. Similarly, Jesus' life inspires us to live with love and integrity, challenging us to reflect God's character in our daily lives.

We are reminded of historical figures like Rosa Parks and Oscar Romero, who, inspired by Jesus, stood against injustice and oppression. Their courage and moral fortitude exemplify how one person's actions can ignite a movement towards justice and righteousness. Jesus' example compels us to confront societal wrongs and live out our faith with conviction and courage.

As we continue our Lenten journey, we are encouraged to engage in acts of advocacy, such as writing letters to support food programs, reflecting our commitment to living as Jesus taught. Through these actions, we participate in the transformative work of the kingdom of God, embodying the light of Christ in the world.

Key Takeaways

1. Jesus as a Moral Example: Jesus' life serves as a powerful moral example, teaching us to live with love, integrity, and selflessness. His actions and teachings guide us to embody the image of God within us, inspiring us to reflect God's character in our daily lives. [19:35]
2. The Power of One: Just as Christopher Robin's act of love inspired others, Jesus' life inspires us to initiate change through selfless actions. Our individual efforts can create a ripple effect, leading others towards love and righteousness. [27:58]
3. Historical Inspirations: Figures like Rosa Parks and Oscar Romero, inspired by Jesus, demonstrate the impact of standing against injustice. Their courage and moral fortitude remind us of the power of living out our faith with conviction and courage. [34:36]
4. Advocacy and Action: Engaging in acts of advocacy, such as supporting food programs, reflects our commitment to living as Jesus taught. These actions are part of the transformative work of the kingdom of God, embodying the light of Christ in the world. [48:27]
5. Living the Light of Christ: We are called to carry the light of Christ into our homes, workplaces, and communities. By living out our best selves, inspired by Jesus, we contribute to transforming the world and spreading the good news of the kingdom. [57:06]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[17:06] - Call to Worship
[19:35] - Children's Lesson: Simon Says
[25:30] - Understanding Atonement
[27:58] - The Power of Selfless Love
[34:36] - Historical Examples of Moral Courage
[37:51] - Jesus as Our Moral Guide
[48:27] - Advocacy Through Letters
[57:06] - Confession and Pardon
[60:38] - Prayers of the People
[64:46] - Offering and Thanksgiving
[68:40] - Announcements and Sending
[76:41] - Closing Hymn and Blessing

Bible Study Guide

**Bible Study Discussion Guide**

**Bible Reading:**

Matthew 7:3-5 (Sermon on the Mount reference)
1 John 3:16-18 (Explicitly mentioned in the sermon)
John 13:14-15 (Implied through the metaphor of the washbasin and towel)

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**Observation Questions:**

In the children's game "Simon Says," how does the concept of following instructions relate to Jesus' teachings? [19:35]
What was the significance of Christopher Robin's act of selfless love in "The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh," and how did it inspire others? [27:58]
How did historical figures like Rosa Parks and Oscar Romero demonstrate moral courage inspired by Jesus? [34:36]
What actions are encouraged during Lent to reflect our commitment to living as Jesus taught? [48:27]

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**Interpretation Questions:**

How does the metaphor of the washbasin and towel illustrate Jesus' teaching on moral and ethical living? [34:36]
In what ways does the story of Christopher Robin reflect the idea of "The Power of One" as discussed in the sermon? [27:58]
How does the example of Rosa Parks and Oscar Romero challenge us to confront societal wrongs today? [34:36]
What does it mean to embody the image of God within us, as inspired by Jesus' life and teachings? [37:51]

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**Application Questions:**

Reflect on a time when you were inspired by someone else's selfless act. How did it influence your actions, and how can you be a similar inspiration to others? [27:58]
Consider the metaphor of the washbasin and towel. What practical steps can you take this week to serve others in your community, following Jesus' example? [34:36]
Identify a societal issue you feel passionate about. How can you take a stand against it, inspired by the courage of figures like Rosa Parks and Oscar Romero? [34:36]
During this Lenten season, what specific actions can you take to live out the teachings of Jesus in your daily life, such as prayer, fasting, or advocacy? [48:27]
Think of a situation where you might have been a bystander. How can you be more proactive in living out your faith and making a positive impact? [34:36]
How can you carry the light of Christ into your workplace or school this week? Identify one specific action you can take to reflect God's love and integrity. [57:06]
Reflect on the idea of "The Power of One." What is one small change you can make in your life that could create a ripple effect of kindness and love in your community? [27:58]

Sermon Clips

This morning I am aware that you had options of coming here or doing something else, and here you are, faithful, looking for inspiration from God, looking at how Jesus, what Jesus has to say to you, to teach you, to live your life. And you came because God is here. God is everywhere, and God is here. As we are with each other, and we join in this flow of faith together, as we hear the word proclaimed, as we respond in Thanksgiving, and this morning our response is going to be letters of offering on food programs, so you'll have an opportunity. [00:12:33] (47 seconds) Edit Clip

Today we're going to look at how Jesus shows us how to live, Jesus as a moral example who is a model for our life and teaches us how to live. [00:13:46] (12 seconds) Edit Clip

Come all who seek grace and truth The Holy One welcomes us with love. Jesus, our Redeemer, sets us free from all that binds us. Rejoice in the one who leads us to new life. Christ shows us how to live, restoring our hearts and relationships. We follow the path of love and reconciliation. The Savior makes us clean, renewing our spirits. We give thanks for mercy that knows no end. [00:17:13] (41 seconds) Edit Clip

That was a big jump. You guys have it down. You know how to do the thing when you're shown and when you're told. And you just do the thing. That's what Jesus does. Jesus showed us how to live. Jesus told us how to live. And so that's what we do. [00:20:18] (17 seconds) Edit Clip

And we all need models of moral living to inspire us to be our best. In the Hundred Acre Woods, it was Christopher Robin who inspired everybody else to be their best selves. Our fundamental nature, created in the image and likeness of God, is that God's character of goodness and love and commitment and connection, that is integral to who we are. [00:30:16] (32 seconds) Edit Clip

The movement of civil rights was led by Christians who were living as Jesus told them to live. Because we need examples. We need examples so that we can follow. That's part of why we gather every Sunday. We need each other as examples of Christian living. Mother Teresa, living in Calcutta, India, saw people dying in the gutter. And folks walking by. And she started picking them up and just took care of them until they died. [00:36:42] (40 seconds) Edit Clip

Jesus is our one. The one who shows us how to live. Inspiring us to be our very best self, saving us from the sin, saving us from sin by moral example. And sin here I'm naming as our inability to fully reflect that image of God that is in each one of us, that we need someone to show us how to fully reflect the image of God, and that is Christ. [00:37:22] (30 seconds) Edit Clip

I am so inspired by his example. Jesus makes me, by that inspiration, makes me more able to love the way God loves, to forgive the way God forgives, to connect the way God connects, to steward creation, to seek service. Jesus' moral example inspires me to become my best self, which saves me from my worst self. [00:39:22] (35 seconds) Edit Clip

Romero inspires me because he faced harsh opposition he had already been receiving death threats for a long time but he did not waver he didn't run away he was adamant about god and about faithful living he never stopped standing up for the poor and those death threats didn't change that and he never retaliated he lived like jesus he was inspired by christ and his example inspired thousands millions of others that light of christ burned brightly in him and others caught that light so we don't have to be archbishops or celebrities or pastors or well known to transform the world when we catch that light of christ it brought it burns brightly and people catch it and it transforms the world we only have to be inspired by jesus and then live out of our best selves as jesus did that light of christ burns in us each one of us carries that light of christ everywhere we go into our homes our workplaces church school we each carry the light of christ in the world and we're going to sing that great afro-american spiritual this little light of mine [00:47:30] (100 seconds) Edit Clip

Pour out your Holy Spirit on us gathered here that we may be renewed in your covenant and we may live as you showed us. Through Christ, with Christ, in Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all honor and glory is yours, almighty God, now and forever. Amen. [01:08:00] (24 seconds) Edit Clip

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