By: Rex Stump
At Christmas time we focus on the birth of Jesus Christ; God’s arrival to earth in the flesh! Prophets told of his coming and angels declared his arrival.
Invitations to see baby Jesus were made to shepherds and wise men. All the necessary preparation took place and then at the right time, Jesus SHOWED UP on earth! But was it enough that Jesus would SHOW UP on earth?
Ask any coach; “Is it good enough just to SHOW UP at practice or a game?” No, the coach wants their players to be engaged in practice and competition.
Ask any teacher; “Is it good enough just to SHOW UP at class?” No, the teacher wants the student to participate, study and learn.
Ask any employer; “Is it good enough just to SHOW UP at work?” No, the employer wants the employee to work, accomplish tasks, and be productive.
Ask any spouse; “Is it good enough just to SHOW UP at home?” No, every spouse wants their mate to be engaged in relationship, conversation, and build on what they vowed at their wedding ceremony.
What I’m trying to say is that to “SHOW UP” isn’t good enough!
Jesus didn’t just SHOW UP. He arrived and grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people. (Luke 2:51-52) He became a man and entered the mission God gave Him – to save the world. (Matthew 1:20-22) He lived out purity and holiness.
(Hebrews 7:25-27 – must read!) He taught with great authority, as only the Son of God could do. (Matthew 7:28-29) He did the right things, cared, expressed feelings, and acted in love towards everyone.
He didn’t just SHOW UP, he lived it out! The incredible thing is that Jesus invites us to follow Him, listen to Him, and then obey Him.
This is just like being on the basketball team, or any team for that matter. First you try out; and then you are invited to be on the team. Once you are on the team you listen to the coach, and you learn at practice. Then you execute the plays you are being taught.
You don’t just SHOW UP; you prepare, you work hard, and you don’t cut corners. To just SHOW UP is not good enough, it’s incomplete, and inexcusable.
It’s good to SHOW UP at church, FCA Huddles, Bible study, etc. But Jesus doesn’t just want us to SHOW UP. He challenges us that once we hear God’s Word (which will happen when we SHOW UP) we must obey what we heard.
We SHOW UP, and then we listen, learn, and obey by putting it into action! The wise and smart person realizes they must SHOW UP and obey (putting into practice what you learn).
This Christmas, remember that Jesus didn’t just SHOW UP and we celebrate that alone. We celebrate that Jesus showed up, lived a Holy life, died for us, rose to life for us, and gives us eternal life! He instructs now to wise and obey what His teachings!
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Rex Stump is the Area Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and serves as a Pastor at True North Church in Wauseon, Ohio.