"What Would Jesus Do?" Challenge: Day One

Dear Readers,

As I mentioned in my last entry, I am currently on a challenge to ask myself when faced with any decision, "What would Jesus do?"

I have tried today to do as I thought Jesus might do, although I needed to remind myself of the question every moment. The only problem was that I got caught up too much in the business of the day, before I noticed that I had forgotten my vow to consider this question. And I found myself forgetting a lot. (Here is my true example:) It got very hectic this morning because we had to take my brother to his orthodontist appointment, and as soon as we reached the office I sat down and began to flip through the various magazines there that are usually displayed for 'costumer comfort.' Of course I didn't eagerly read the current issue of "Self," or "Oprah," but I found myself compromising with issues such as "Ladies Home Journal," "Justine," and others. The magazines weren't horrible, but the majority of the content usually goes like this;

"Try the New 'Back in Time' Face Makeover: How to cover your wrinkles with more layers and radiation, and look like a 20 year old despite your age! This does not apply to females ages 50- 92."

"What's New in Fall Fashion! Spend more on Top Designs and still look bizarre!"

"Home Decor is all about Neon Green this Year! These designers found that decorating your home is not about how much your guests go blind from the reflective light of your walls, but how you feel instead!"

"Fads are Bad! (Ooops... we mean 'Back') This new Diet will slim and trim you down! We guarantee that no matter your weight, you too can look like a holocaust victim."

I took the liberty to exaggerate these subjects just for fun; but the facts remain true. Reading subjects like these may be fun and enticing, but they do not benefit you in the end. I had to stop myself because I realised that if Jesus were looking over my shoulder, he would not be pleased. Not only do these magazines provide me with no good knowledge, they distract me from the vows I have chosen to remain with in my life. What it came down to was, would Jesus be reading this literature? Would He have smiled at the pictures of deadly thin models in ridiculous outfits? He would probably be sad instead. I was convicted by this quite a bit. I put the magazines back in the end.

There is a hymn that says;

"All for Jesus, all for Jesus;
All my being's ransomed powers;
All my thoughts and all my doings,
All my days and all my hours."

What it boils down to is this: In this or that situation, in this minute, this second, this moment; Am I doing what Jesus would approve of? Am I thinking about what Jesus would want me to think? Am I choosing to walk in Jesus' steps?

At least, this is what I have been learning recently in this journey. I encourage all those who choose to "Do What Jesus Would Do," to continue steadfastly!

Thanks for the stroll....

-Lindsay