called to ...

Called to follow
Christ

Called to goodness
and kindness
and faithfulness
and gentleness
and self-control
and love
and joy
and peace
and patience

Called to endure
suffering
in the midst

Why?

Because of Christ
Because He suffered for us

He suffered
in the midst of all,
yet He remained
faithful
to His Father God.

"He himself bore
our sins 
in His body
on the tree...
so we 
might live 
for righteousness." 
(I Peter 2:24)

Jesus
is our example -
His steps
we are
to follow

No sin
No deceit
No insults
No retaliation

Called to follow
Jesus

Not our own
selfish
wants and desires

Called to follow
our Savior,
to endure
the pain
life throws at us

Called to receive
God's blessings
because of
our obedience
and love
for The One
who loves us
so much
He endured
the pain
and suffering
of the cross ...
all for us.

We are called

Have we answered

Do we answer
daily - hourly - minute by minute

Do we
endure
every pain
and remain kind
and gentle,
loving,
joyful,
peaceful,
patient,
faithful,
good?

Do we ask
the Lord's forgiveness
for our own
shortcomings?

Do we seek
His guidance
to overcome
every setback?

Have you
"now returned
to the Shepherd
and Overseer 
of your soul?"
(II Peter 2:25)

(c) Cathy Orrick Luders
Oct. 6, 2018