By Pastor Jared

What does "Follow Jesus” mean? Jesus spoke on this topic a lot, so let’s look at His explanations. John 8:31 says, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples.” So, if we live by Jesus’ teachings, then we are Jesus followers. Great! But we still need more info. What are his teachings all about? When asked about following God, Jesus explains two things. 1. Love God and 2. Love people. (Mark 12:30-31). What a relief! We don’t need to understand a complex and confusing list of requirements. It’s all about personal health and loving others. How do we love others?

Jesus is very clear on this one. He wants us to feed hungry people, give water to thirsty people, invite strangers into our lives, donate clothes, and visit people in prison. (Matthew 25:35-36). What do all these acts of love have in common? All of them include sharing resources to empower others. Our resources include a million different things: time, energy, food, water, cars, clothes... Anything I have can be shared. A sharing centered lifestyle takes self-awareness and good boundaries. If I give away too much, then I sacrifice my own health and can’t share resources anymore.

There are many ways to serve others, but today let’s focus on time. For people in our immediate circles, family and friends, we can simply be present. That may sound simple, but it’s tough to do if I’m busy and preoccupied with work and stress. The most incredible conversations happen when I give my wife, family, and friends my full attention.

Lastly, Jesus asks us to give time to strangers. Looking back, I can see that my life has been radically changed by once-strangers giving me time at Starbucks, listening to me vent and talk about my dreams. I don’t remember my mentors’ specific words, but I remember that they were present.

Jesus said to love God and love people. That can only happen if we give time to God, and give time to people because time is love.

P.S. This week Pastor Tim’s message is entitled “Jesus Followers”.  Join us for a wonderful time of online worship on Facebook Live, YouTube Live, www.wacathedral.org Website or our WaCathedral App at 10:30 on Sunday, March 7, 2021.