Pro vs. Joe

This morning I had the privilege and honor of leading a funeral for a man named Joe who was 100 years old. Of the countless funerals I have preached, I have never been so excited. It is not that Joe won't be missed; but, rather, that Joe was ready. Since I met Joe over two years ago, he was ready to join his beloved wife of 69 years in heaven so to walk the streets of gold hand in hand. Joe pretty much taught my kids how to give a high-five as he made his weekly (and sometimes weakly) stroll through the preschool area. Often my son would hop down from the lap of whomever was holding him and ease his way over to give Joe a high-five. Joe made a deep impact across generations.

When I think of the authentic Christian life, I think of Joe. He didn't put on a front. He told you what was on his mind and of his deep love for Jesus Christ. Being in construction for 24 years might of wore out his body, but it didn't wear out his heart. Joe often said that he "worked hard in the morning to make a friend, and hard in the afternoon to keep him."

So often churches get caught up in looking professsional that it misses that it forgets to be friend. My desire is that the follower of Christ strive, not to be a professional Christian, but a person that authentically allows the power of Jesus to work in their lives.

What's the result? I can imagine that when Joe reached the pearly gates and passed through heaven's throne room that Jesus slipped down off of the throne, stuck out His nail-pierced hand and, gave Joe a high-five saying, '"Well done..."

If you ever think the Christian life is about being a pro, just remember Joe.

Brian