This issue we thought it most fitting to interview The Gift, the one we recognize as the real reason for the season, his name is Jesus! In all of our interviews, we ask the same series of questions in order to better understand the journey into purpose. The life of Christ is one that has brought a greater sense of purpose to the lives of millions over the ages. His realm of influence and impact is remarkably unparalleled.
How would you define your mission and purpose?
St. John 3:16 says it best. [For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.] I am the Gift of God. God loved you so much that He gave me to you as the ultimate sacrifice to pay the ransom of sin on your life. My life, death, and resurrection, grants those who accept and believe on me everlasting life.
Sure, I gave sight to the blind, strength to the lame, restored health, fed the hungry, but the real gift was my life. I laid it down, so that you could live again. My purpose in life was to die so that my spirit could live in you, empowering you to live like I lived, give like I gave and love like I loved. I came to show the world how to give the most valuable and meaningful gift, yourself.
What are some challenges, difficulties, and hardships you've overcome in the process of fulfilling your purpose?
I was tempted in all points, [Hebrews 4:15] yet without sin so the challenges and difficulties that each of you daily experience, I know all about them. I’ve dealt with loneliness, betrayal, sadness, people talking about me, lying on me, I’ve been misunderstood….sound familiar? But because I have already overcome the world [St. John 16:33] and the powers of this world, in me you will find the gift of victory [Romans 8:37] because in me there is no failure.
Who inspires you most and how?
What warms my heart the most is a positive response to the gift of eternal life. Everyone likes for the recipient of their gift to be appreciative. I love to see a person living out of the new heart they received when they accepted me. A life that is daily transforming and evolving to look more like the example of love that can only be found in God, because He is love. I am overjoyed to see people walk in the newness of life, with a rejuvenated spirit, boldly and enthusiastically exemplifying the message of salvation. I rejoice when I see individuals who are more concerned with leading others in to a true relationship with me and not simply a ritual with me.
What is your life defining passage of scripture or wisdom literature?
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have [it] more abundantly. [John 10:10]
Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. [3John 1:2]
His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. [Matthew 25:23]
For with God nothing shall be impossible. [Luke 1:37]
Shall I continue?
Given your talents, passion, and values, how have you used these to serve others and positively impact your environment?
I used my entire life to serve. I was an example of how gifts are to be used in this world. Gifts are given to serve and edify others as this brings glory to our Father. I performed miracles, manifestations of healing and deliverance to minister to the needs of the sick, hurting, and oppressed. I washed my disciple’s feet to show them how to be a serving leader, reminding them that those who looked to be counted among the greatest would be those who served the most. [Matthew 23:11]
What are you doing to stay on your path?
My Path is complete. I fulfilled my work on Earth, but what kept me on that path was that I humbly submitted to the will of my Father, rather than yielding to the dictates of my own flesh (remember Gethsemane?) I stayed singular in purpose and I served others with joy.
My message to everyone: This year, you may not receive or be able to give the gifts that you desire, but this holiday season, take a moment to appreciate the rich treasure that you do possess. Become the gift! Serve one another with joy and share the love that I have for you with everyone you come in contact with.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
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