Many years ago when I was substitute teaching I had a class if kindergartners sitting on the rug in front me.  I proceeded to introduce myself.  “Good morning, my name is Mrs. Christianson.”  One little girl’s hand shot up and she blurted out, “Are you a Christian?”  Since it was a a public school I smiled back at her and said “Yes, I am.”  That seemed to satisfy her and we continued the lesson.  But it got me thinking about what is a Christian and what I believe.  I think I even wrote a children’s sermon about it.

The main Christian belief is that Jesus Christ is the son of God.  Many other religious groups and individuals who purport to be Christian just believe that Jesus was a prophet or religious man who gave us ideas for living a Godly life. No, friends, a true Christian believes that Jesus is the  SON OF GOD just as we confess every Sunday in the Creed.  He gave his life for us so that we are free from sin and the devil and can live our lives in a Christian manner.  What does that look like?  There are many places in the Mew Testament where we are given instructions on Christian living.  They can be found in Galatians 5 and 6, Ephesians 4 and 5, Colossians 3, James 2 and 3, and 1 Peter 1 and 2..  However it still comes down to what Jesus said to do.  “Love God with all your heart and love your neighbor as yourself.”  Remember you are a Christian because you know that Jesus is the son of God and he loves you unconditionally.

Nancy

Colossians 3:12-13 (NIV)  “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.  Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.  Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”