being the imitaion of Christ

Tonight was our youth group's first night being parent-run. Since we do not currently have a full-time youth pastor, some of the parents--that have previously been youth pastors-- have stepped-up and become volunteer youth pastors! What a commitment! Anyway, tonight we talked about being imitators of Christ and pondered the question, "Whose are you?" That's the question we will answer next week as well as some questions about John chapters 1 and 2. Reading those chapters is our "challenge" till next week.

Since the message was on being imitators of Christ, I decided on a pretty picture of a mirror. My everyday goal is to be like Christ and see some part of Him in my reflection. Ephesians 5:1 says, "Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children, and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."

Mrs. Jennifer (youth pastor) gave us a really nice "picture" to think of when we thought of the gift of salvation God gave us. She said to pretend and really believe tomorrow we would be executed for our sins. We're on death row and there's absolutely NO way to be redeemed by any action of our own. But then, someone comes up to you and offers to take your place in the electric chair. In return he asks you a favor. If you're willing to accept his gift, you will be free of death! But, you have to accept it. And if you do, you'll probably feel as though you owe your life to the man who took your place and will do the favor. It's the same with God; He took you place, offers you a way out, and in return wants your life. Kind of ironic how he dies so your life can belong to him. hmmm. I've chosen to accept this gift because if I don't, I'll spend eternity in separation from God. Please, if you haven't made the decision to give the man, who gave his life for you, your life, do so now! Your eternity is at stake.

And I hope you all had a lovely day! Sorry for such deep-thinking.....