If Jesus is not real for you then you will have expectations that God must live up to, instead of searching humbly and joyfully to discover what expectations Paraclete has for you.

If Jesus is an idea, a philosophy, a religious icon or a focal point for cultural or social loyalty you will believe anything that reinforces your “idea”. You will allow your Pastor to demand attendees submit to his/her authority, contrary to Scripture. You will defend your congregation against accusations of its humanness, not because they are wrong, but because you feel an obligation to justify your decision to belong. Committee membership, business meetings, cleaning bees, bazaars, fundraiser dinners and garage sales will give you a sense of accomplishment even though these have nothing to do with God’s mission. And so on…

But Jesus said, “I’m giving you a new commandment: Love each other in the same way that I have loved you. Everyone will know that you are my disciples because of your love for each other” (John 13:34-35 God’s Word).

Jesus died. Jesus did not have a meeting. Jesus did not build a $10-million structure. Jesus did not hold a bazaar. Jesus died so death would not be our final destiny. Jesus loved us to death.

How much do you love Jesus?

I've heard of them, but when I saw this 1.5 meter (5 foot) iguana in Belize, I knew...

I’ve heard of them, but when I saw this 1.5 meter (5 foot) iguana in Belize, I knew…

“I beseech you, do not let yourself be deceived with some merely vague thoughts about the presence of Jesus. No, think of Him as specifically in you. Trust in Him. Let this truth become reality: let Christ become a live presence.” (Andrew Murray, “The Spiritual Life”, 1895, [1986 CLC edition, page 117]).

Do you have a best friend? Do you talk and laugh and cry and plan and hope and play together? When you experience Jesus with that same kind of reality you have passed from religious to spiritual.

Get real. Settle for nothing other than the real Jesus. No imaginary friend can give the same experience as a real one.

Be real. Love like your life depended on it. Love like Jesus.

Really? Yes, really!