I feel like Jesus. Isn’t that the entire point of Christianity? To feel/be more and more like Jesus? I believe so. I just didn’t think this is how I would come to the realization.
Everywhere Jesus went there were crowds following him, people shouting at him and strangers flocking towards him. That’s what a typical day on the World Race looks like (at least in Africa). I learned this lesson in an overwhelming way earlier this month.
Our normal ministry routine changed for a day. There was a funeral being held where we were originally supposed to go. So, in true World Race fashion, we completely changed course for the day. Our host’s grandchildren attended a school a few miles away. So, there we walked. What awaited us, I could have never fathomed.
Hundreds upon hundreds of students nearly attacked us as we were paraded through their school yard. I told my team, “This is the closest I’ll ever come to being a celebrity.” I couldn’t help but become annoyed and overwhelmed with the overzealous children. They were invading my personal space big time.
To put this experience into perspective: Students were chanting “mzungu” at us, which means white person in the local Chichewa language. Their loud greetings sounded like an invasive swarm of bees. Every single student wanted to touch our white skin and feel our shiny hair. If we moved a step, they moved with us. Their big brown eyes and sweaty, dirty fingers didn’t miss a beat. Not to mention, it was 100 degrees and there wasn’t a teacher in sight to keep the chaotic crowds under control.
Even as someone who doesn’t mind being the center of attention, this experience was a little much.
One of my teammates said, “Do you think this is what Jesus felt like every day?” I was shaken. I bet this is exactly what Jesus felt like every day. Yet, he continued to show up. Over and over.
Every time he was in public, people bombarded him. He was fascinating, intriguing and an obvious miracle worker. Everyone wanted to see him and know him and touch him. I GET THAT NOW.
This realization put into perspective what kind of person Jesus was. He so easily could have been like me and wanted nothing to do with the crowds and the children. He could have gotten overwhelmed and hid. Instead, he pressed in. He shared scripture and he capably practiced spiritual gifts. He worked miracles and he did so with grace and patience for the people.
Whew! I’m trying to be more like Jesus. But, more often than not, I fail. Today, I’m especially thankful God sent Jesus to walk the earth and show us a tangible model of holiness. We know Jesus’ character and we know God wants us to resemble him.
Let my situation be an example. Don’t let little things overwhelm you and don’t take your situation for granted. Use even annoying scenarios as a way to serve the Lord, just like Jesus did every single day.
