INTRODUCTION

To bless something used to mean setting it apart, sanctifying it, or making it holy. However, our consumer Christianity has re-interpreted 'blessing' to mean acquiring a lot of material goods or favor, with the emphasis on the 'what's in it for me' mentality.

 

OUTMODED!

This mindset is in conflict with the basic idea of Christianity, which is not all about us but is more about being concerned with others. Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends," (John 14:3). He gave up everything for us - His glory, His Life, and His throne! But His example of self-sacrifice seems outmoded in today's secularized self-centered society.

 

SPLITTING HISTORY

History records the deeds of great conquerors and kings, but the greatest impact was made by those who made the greatest sacrifice! Jesus is our example of this. His life split history and humanity right down the middle, just like the veil in the temple that was split the instant He died on the cross. "Then the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in two. And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit.’ Having said this, He breathed His last," (Luke 23:45-46).

 

IN REMEMBRANCE

When all is said and done, you can just spend your life and waste the years that God has given you here on earth, or you can make your precious life count! There's no greater cause you can devote yourself to than serving others by laying your life down so that Jesus may be lifted up and made famous in the nations.

 

The impact of your life will be far greater when you seek to be a blessing than seeking to be blessed! A life of self-serving will not be remembered much beyond your own lifetime. However, like Jesus, the more you serve others, the more you will be remembered by the generations yet to come!