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By Rev Don Rivers
As we wrap up our look into some of the common questions people have about Christianity we come to the point where it is often asked; so, what does it all mean? How is this relevant to the life I live and the situations I face every day? The fact is Christianity is all about a relationship with God through Christ. It doesn’t get more relevant than that. Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
What is relevant to our lives can be seen from two perspectives, ours and someone else’s. Relevant has to do with relating to others, relationships. Everything we do in life is built on relationships.
Think about racing, the one thing that makes it work is the relationships we build. They are lasting and important. The racing community is one tied together by what they all have in common, what they can relate to.
I remember the times when I ran into an old acquaintance in the garage area at the track. We have a basis to relate to each other, racing. It is great to have a chance to touch base and talk about where life has taken us and where it is leading us. We have common ground, we could relate, all because of racing.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 12; Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.
A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
Ecclesiastes helps us understand that we need these relationships for life to have meaning. We need these relationships because that is the way we were created. We are a people who are dependent on each other, we must relate to each other.
Relationships are not about others serving us, they are about serving others. When we put the interest of others above our own we make a difference in people’s lives.
Hebrews 10:24-25a; Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, …
We have seen it many times in the garage, someone needs help. The community rallies around them and makes every effort to help the one in need. Not only as it relates to racing but as it relates to life. Many times we face life events that have nothing to do with racing but the racing community rallies around us and supports us, encourages us and provides for our needs.
That is how Christianity is relevant today, coming together to meet the needs of those around us. Some of us act more like Christ than we ever thought possible. We have overcome the desire to serve ourselves and look around to see how we can help someone else. Many times we are not aware of the needs of others but something inside us urges us to check on someone. That is the Holy Spirit, he speaks to us and helps us meet the needs of others.
Christianity is relevant today more than ever. We live in a world that is consumed by selfishness and motivated by greedy desires. Watch the news, it is there. Everything that is wrong today has its foundation in self-desire. No concern for others and their welfare. Christ came to change that. He came to show us the best way to live. Christ made the ultimate sacrifice, His life, for us, even while we were not following God.
Christianity means, Christ like. We can only claim to be Christ like if in fact we approach life and live like Christ did. We need to remember that as we ask ourselves is Christianity relevant today. It is only relevant if we make the effort.
Philippians 2:1-5; Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.
Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.
You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.
Relevant is a term that has significance when we are willing to relate to others. We can choose to make a difference in this world by being like Christ. There are many difficulties and challenges, they are proclaimed by the media every day. We must ask ourselves; how have I tried to relate Christ’s teachings to others?
In his book, He Is There and He Is Not Silent, Francis A. Schaeffer challenges us;
“Let’s put away the headlines and talk about our own lives. Civil wars around the globe aren’t all that different from the uncivil behavior in our own homes, (and communities). How can people get along with people especially when they’re being so unlovable? Jesus gave us the model of servanthood, non-retaliation and forgiveness. Through the Holy Spirit, he also provides the power his people need to break the grip of (selfishness). All too often Christians have made their faith seem musty, hanging on to customs and language from past generations. What we have is new, fresh, relevant, life changing. It is Good News! Not only good, but news! More relevant news that you will ever see in the media or encounter in your daily life.”
John 3:17; God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.
John 10:10; The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.
John 14:6; Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.
Until next time, remember God loves you and Jesus is Lord over Auto Racing! God Bless. Remember, that your prayerful support and donations helps us continue this ministry. Thank You.
