How does Jesus relate to me? I know I’m a disciple, but what does that mean, exactly?

• He calls me to something for which I’m unqualified. Four fishermen became evangelists and teachers. One was a tax collector. The calling is always God-sized because no skill set can achieve supernatural results.
• He builds the relationship on love and on promises of faithfulness. My relationship with Him began with love and forgiveness, followed by spoken promises that won’t ever be broken. Love is my fuel and His promises are my courage.
• He extends mercy before I sin. Jesus told Peter that he would deny him three times. When Peter was visibly shaken, Jesus told him not to be worried and upset but to believe in God. There was mercy before the sin. He didn’t tell Peter the specifics of how he would deny him, nor did He show him how to avoid it. I am forgiven in the past, in the present, and in the future.
• He forgives without reservation. Jesus forgives no matter how many times I say I’m sorry. I will have times of failure in the relationship. That’s inevitable. But not one sin or mistake will qualify as ‘unforgiveable’.
• He allows testing to reveal my flaws. Jesus was tested in the wilderness. His disciples were tested, too. When the fires are hot, the hidden things of the heart are driven to the surface. Bad theology is exposed. Testing purifies, and though it takes time to see the benefits, Jesus allows it out of love. And He walks with me through it.
• He is always out front ~ showing me the way home. I’m in the yoke with Jesus. He’s right there, a little in front, bearing the weight and responsibility for my needs. I am assured that the path we travel together leads me safely home.

The way may be steep, but it’s beautiful. Amen