Christian Living

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I am a Christian. I observe Christianity by attending the Sunday service. I do that because most of my relatives and other Christians have it as an obligatory habit. We just gather there, sing songs and hear readings and comments. They do not touch or change my life in any way.

In the South Indian state Kerala, the seed of Christianity is said to have been sown by St. Thomas, one of the twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ. We boast ourselves that we are ancient Christians. It has been alive in the subcontinent from the first century. Then, I wonder, why it could not touch the hearts of others. Then what did Jesus mean when he said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation.” (Mark 16:15)? Is it because I do not feel the love of Christ or others in me? Does it mean that I am afraid of coming out of my selfish cocoon?

Who is a real Christian?

History tells me that Christianity attracted others not by mere lip service but by the life of loving service. Christianity survived through all these years by the real love that was shown through love without selfishness. It is by doing others whatever good that can be done, and not by shouting loud words, or showing flashy actions, or highlighting grabbing proclamations.

Is a Christian a Good Samaritan?

I think the definition of a Christian told by Jesus is found in the story of the Good Samaritan. The traveler was attacked on his way. Those who came by his way neglected doing anything for him. Rather, they were very busy to finish their schedules or thought that they were too high to go down to help others. The one who helped the affected was also busy on his way. But something in his heart moved him. He saw himself bleeding on the road. His mind humble moved him to do something.

The Samaritan stopped on his way. He spent his time for the suffering man. He spent his pocket money. He did not count the cost. His calculations were not consumerist or commercial. He just helped the suffering without expecting any return.

Does Jesus show me this love at his Last Supper?

At the Last Supper, Jesus served his disciples, washed their feet and served them food. He told to share his body and blood. He asked them to do that kind of sharing in his memory. Is the Sunday service a memory of his Last Supper, during which Jesus told, “Love one another and through that love let others know that you are my disciples”? Is every church service a sharing of true love?

Oh God, open my eyes to understand the value of love. Make me offer you my life in real service. Make my services meaningful. Make me live Christ.

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