You've probably seen the bracelets, bumper stickers, and countless other reminders asking one seemingly simple question: "What would Jesus do?" This phrase has become a cultural shorthand, a quick moral checkpoint for everyday dilemmas. But this morning, as I pondered over my cup of coffee, a thought struck me—a kind of snarky retort to the age-old question, yet one that unexpectedly unfolded into a deeper reflection.
What if, when we ask "What would Jesus do?", we're invited not just to consider the actions of a moment but to embrace a journey of profound transformation? What if this question beckons us to a path that involves suffering, dying to our old selves, and experiencing a kind of resurrection—a rebirth into new habits, new ways of being?
In today's post, we're going beyond the surface of this familiar question. We'll dive into the metaphorical and literal implications of walking in Jesus' footsteps, especially when it comes to personal challenges like breaking free from an addiction or transforming a deeply ingrained habit. It's about viewing our struggles through a lens that's both ancient and surprisingly relevant, offering insights that might just lead to an "aha" moment about the enduring power of faith and the possibility of personal renewal.
So, let's embark on this journey together, exploring how the very essence of "What would Jesus do?" can inspire not just moral choices but a transformative way of navigating life's trials and triumphs.
Embarking on a journey of change often begins in a place of discomfort, pain, or realization that something within us needs to shift. This starting point, marked by a keen awareness of our struggles, bears a striking resemblance to the suffering Jesus faced. His journey, though divine in nature, encapsulates the very essence of human trials—embracing suffering not as an end but as a crucial step toward transformation.
Imagine, for a moment, deciding to break free from an addiction. This decision, noble and fraught with difficulty, plunges you into a realm of suffering reminiscent of the garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus grappled with the imminent pain of His sacrifice. It's a moment of profound internal conflict, where the soul wrestles with the body, and the spirit contends with the flesh.
This suffering, however, is not without purpose. Just as Jesus' pain was a precursor to salvation, our personal struggles signal the beginning of a transformative journey. It's a necessary discomfort that propels us forward, urging us to let go of harmful habits and to embrace a path that leads to healing and growth.
In the throes of this initial suffering, we find a powerful catalyst for change. It's the moment when we acknowledge our vulnerability, recognize our need for a shift, and make that courageous decision to step into the unknown. This step, while daunting, is imbued with a sense of hope—a belief that, just as Jesus overcame His suffering, we too can emerge from our trials renewed and strengthened.
As we navigate this phase, it's essential to remember that suffering is not an end in itself but a passage. It's the intense heat of the forge that shapes us, the pruning that fosters new growth. In embracing this stage of our journey, we align ourselves with a fundamental aspect of the human experience, one that Jesus Himself walked through. This shared path of suffering and transformation offers not just a blueprint for change but a profound connection to the very heart of the Gospel narrative.
So, as we stand at the crossroads of decision and change, let us take heart in the knowledge that our suffering is the first step on a path to a deeper, more authentic life. It's a journey that, while marked by trials, leads us toward a resurrection of spirit and a renewal of purpose, mirroring the transformative journey that Jesus Himself walked.
The journey of transformation takes us to a pivotal moment—a moment of 'dying' to our old selves. This profound concept, deeply embedded in the Christian narrative through Jesus' death, offers a powerful metaphor for personal change, especially when confronting deeply ingrained habits or addictions.
When Jesus was crucified, it wasn't just a physical death; it represented the ultimate sacrifice, laying down His life for the renewal of humanity. This act of self-giving love is a stark illustration of what it means to truly let go, to surrender something of ourselves for the promise of something greater. In our own lives, when we decide to break free from the chains of an addiction or a harmful pattern, we're faced with a similar form of 'death.' It's the death of comfort zones, familiar vices, and, often, a part of our identity.
Imagine, for a moment, an addiction as a garment woven into the very fabric of our being. Deciding to let go of this addiction requires us to unravel these threads, to peel away layers that have, over time, become part of us. This process is akin to the shedding of an old skin, painful and raw in its exposure, yet essential for growth and renewal.
This 'dying' is not without its grief. Just as those who witnessed Jesus' crucifixion mourned His loss, we too may grieve as we let go of old habits and the false sense of security they provided. Yet, in this grieving, there's a liberation, a release from the shackles that once bound us. It's a step into vulnerability, where true healing begins.
But how does one embrace this kind of 'death'? It starts with acceptance, acknowledging the need for change, and then, with a deep breath, stepping into the unknown. It involves moments of prayer or meditation, seeking strength and guidance beyond ourselves, much like Jesus' moments of solitude and prayer before His crucifixion.
As we 'die' to our old selves, we make space for new life. This isn't a one-time event but a journey of continuous surrender and renewal. Each day offers a chance to 'crucify' those parts of us that hinder growth—pride, fear, doubt—and in their place, cultivate virtues of humility, courage, and faith.
In this process of letting go, we find the essence of rebirth. Just as the seed must die to sprout new life, we too must embrace the end of certain aspects of our lives to welcome the dawn of a new beginning. This cycle of death and rebirth, mirrored in Jesus' resurrection, is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the enduring hope of renewal.
So, as we navigate the challenging path of dying to our old selves, let us hold fast to the promise of resurrection—of a life redefined by grace, strengthened by trials, and illuminated by the enduring light of transformation.
In the heart of the transformation journey lies a critical phase, often shrouded in darkness and uncertainty, akin to the "three days" Jesus spent in the grave. This period, following the death of our old selves and preceding the emergence of the new, is a time of profound struggle, doubt, and waiting. It's a liminal space where the past is gone, and the future has yet to take form—a spiritual and emotional 'tomb' where we wrestle with what comes next.
Visualize this phase as the deepest part of the night, where the world is silent, and time seems to stand still. It's in these quiet hours, in the absence of light, that growth and renewal quietly take root. The 'three days' in the grave symbolize this necessary pause, a sacred space where transformation brews beneath the surface, unseen and yet profoundly active.
During this time, it's not uncommon to feel lost or adrift, as if wandering in a dense fog. The familiar markers of our old life have disappeared, and the path forward is not yet visible. Doubt creeps in, whispering questions that challenge our resolve: "Was it worth it?" "Can I truly change?" "What if I fail?" These are the echoes in the tomb, the natural responses of the human heart in the face of the unknown.
Yet, it's precisely in this darkness that faith becomes our guiding star. Just as Jesus' followers had to trust in the promise of His resurrection during the uncertainty of those three days, we too are called to hold onto hope when the way forward is unclear. It's a time to lean into prayer, reflection, and community, drawing strength from the knowledge that resurrection is on the horizon.
Imagine a visual of a seed buried in the ground, enveloped in darkness. There's no sign of life from the surface, and yet, within, a profound transformation is underway. This image serves as a powerful reminder that even in the depths of our uncertainty, new life is being cultivated.
This period of transition is not a passive waiting but an active engagement with our inner landscape. It's an opportunity to confront our fears, to heal old wounds, and to prepare our hearts for the new life that awaits. Like the caterpillar in the chrysalis, we are being reshaped, reformed into a version of ourselves we have yet to meet.
As we navigate these "three days" of transition, let us remember that this phase is as crucial to our journey as the death and resurrection that flank it. It's here, in the silence of the grave, that we find the courage to let go of what was and embrace the promise of what will be. And just as dawn inevitably follows the darkest night, so too does resurrection follow this time of waiting.
So, let us embrace this period of uncertainty not with fear but with anticipation, knowing that it is the precursor to renewal. For after the "three days" in the grave comes the morning of resurrection, bringing with it the light of a new beginning, a new life forged in the depths of transformation.
As dawn breaks after the darkest night, so too does the emergence of a new self follow the "three days" of transition. This moment of resurrection is more than just a return to life; it's a profound rebirth, embodying a renewed sense of self, purpose, and hope. In the Christian narrative, Jesus' resurrection is the cornerstone of faith, symbolizing victory over death and the promise of eternal life. In our personal journeys, overcoming trials and emerging from periods of deep uncertainty can feel like a resurrection, where we step into a life redefined by grace and newfound strength.
This emergence is not a mere continuation of the past but a radical renewal. Just as Jesus appeared to His followers in a glorified state, so too do we emerge from our trials transformed. This new self is characterized by a deeper understanding of our own resilience, a clearer sense of our values and purpose, and a heightened capacity for empathy and compassion. It's as if, through the crucible of our struggles, we've been refined and reshaped into a version of ourselves that's more aligned with our true essence.
Imagine the first breath after emerging from underwater, the rush of air filling your lungs, the clarity and vibrancy of the world around you. This is the sensation of stepping into your new life after a period of profound transformation. It's a moment of exhilaration, marked by a profound appreciation for life and a renewed commitment to live in alignment with your highest ideals.
In this new chapter, hope takes on a new dimension. It's no longer just a lifeline in times of trouble but a guiding light, illuminating our path forward. This hope is rooted in the lived experience of overcoming, in the tangible proof that renewal is possible, and in the deep-seated belief that no trial is insurmountable.
The emergence of this new self also brings a shift in how we interact with the world around us. Empowered by our journey through suffering, 'death,' and the 'tomb,' we're equipped to be agents of hope and transformation in the lives of others. Just as Jesus' resurrection inspired His followers to spread the message of hope and salvation, our personal resurrections can inspire those around us to seek their own paths of transformation.
This new life is not free from challenges, but the way we face these challenges has fundamentally changed. Armed with the wisdom gleaned from our trials and the strength carved from our struggles, we approach life's inevitable ups and downs with a sense of grace and resilience. We understand that just as winter gives way to spring, so too do periods of darkness give way to light.
In conclusion, the resurrection to new life is the culmination of a journey marked by suffering, introspection, and ultimately, profound transformation. It's a testament to the human spirit's capacity for renewal and a reflection of the central promise of the Christian faith—that in every ending, there is a new beginning, and in every death, the promise of resurrection.
As we embrace this new life, let us carry forward the lessons learned in the 'tomb,' wielding our renewed sense of purpose with humility and grace, and walking in the light of hope that guides us ever onward.
Applying the profound metaphor of Jesus' death and resurrection to our personal challenges offers a powerful framework for navigating life's trials with resilience and hope. Here are practical suggestions to help you embody this transformative journey in your daily life:
Acknowledge the Need for Change: Just as Jesus accepted His path, start by acknowledging areas in your life that require transformation. This could be a harmful habit, a toxic relationship, or a negative mindset. Recognizing the need for change is the first step towards your personal 'Gethsemane.'
Embrace the Suffering: Understand that initial discomfort and suffering are integral to growth. Whether it's the withdrawal from an addiction or the emotional turmoil of ending a relationship, accept this pain not as a sign of failure but as a necessary phase of 'dying' to the old self.
Seek Solitude and Reflection: In your 'three days in the grave,' find strength in solitude and reflection, much like Jesus did. Use this time for deep introspection, prayer, or meditation to confront your doubts and fears and to prepare for the emergence of the new self.
Lean on Your Support System: Just as Jesus had His disciples, don't hesitate to lean on your support system during this transitional period. Share your struggles and seek guidance from trusted friends, family, or mentors who can offer perspective and encouragement.
Cultivate Patience and Faith: The 'three days' of transition may feel longer in your personal journey. Cultivate patience and hold onto faith that this period of uncertainty is not permanent but a gateway to renewal.
Celebrate Small Victories: Resurrection doesn't happen all at once. Celebrate the small victories along the way, acknowledging each step forward as a sign of progress. This could be as simple as resisting a temptation or making a healthy choice in a challenging moment.
Embrace Your New Identity: When you begin to feel the emergence of your new self, embrace it fully. Acknowledge the growth and change you've experienced, and integrate these into your sense of identity. This could involve setting new boundaries, adopting healthier habits, or pursuing goals aligned with your renewed self.
Offer Compassion and Support to Others: As you navigate your resurrection, extend the compassion and understanding you've developed to others who are struggling. Share your journey when appropriate, offering hope and encouragement to those who may be in their own 'Gethsemane' or 'tomb.'
Maintain a Practice of Reflection: Even after you've experienced your personal resurrection, continue a practice of regular reflection to ensure that you remain aligned with your new self and purpose. This can help prevent slipping back into old patterns and sustain your transformation.
Live with Gratitude and Hope: Finally, live each day with gratitude for the journey and hope for the future. Recognize the strength you've gained through your trials and carry forward the light of hope, not just for yourself but as a beacon for others.
By viewing your personal challenges through the lens of Jesus' death and resurrection, you can navigate life's trials with a deeper sense of purpose and resilience. This framework not only provides a blueprint for personal transformation but also connects your journey to a larger narrative of hope and renewal.
In revisiting the familiar question, "What would Jesus do?", we uncover layers of depth that extend far beyond its common usage as a moral guidepost. This inquiry, when deeply contemplated, offers us a profound framework for understanding and navigating our own journeys of personal growth and transformation. It's not just about the decisions Jesus would make in our everyday dilemmas but about embracing the entirety of His journey—His suffering, death, and resurrection—as a metaphor for our own paths to renewal.
This deeper interpretation of Jesus' life and teachings encourages us to view our struggles, not as insurmountable obstacles, but as integral steps in our process of becoming. It reminds us that the discomfort of letting go, the pain of 'dying' to our old selves, and the uncertainty of waiting in the 'tomb' are not merely challenges to endure but sacred phases of transformation that lead to the emergence of a new, more authentic self.
As we draw this discussion to a close, I invite you to reflect on your own life through this Gospel lens. Consider the areas where you might be called to suffer and let go, to 'die' to certain aspects of your life, and to patiently wait in the uncertainty of transition. Remember, it is through these very experiences that the potential for a personal resurrection lies—a resurrection that heralds a renewed sense of self, purpose, and hope.
Let this deeper understanding of "What would Jesus do?" serve not only as a moral compass but as a source of comfort and guidance through your trials. May it remind you that your journey of transformation is not a solitary one, but a path walked in the footsteps of Jesus, illuminated by His life and resurrection.
As you navigate your own trials and transformations, hold onto the hope and renewal promised by the Gospel. Let it be a beacon that guides you through the darkest nights and into the dawn of a new beginning. And in your moments of resurrection, may you find not only a renewed sense of self but also the strength to be a bearer of hope and light to those around you.
I encourage you to share your reflections, stories, and 'aha' moments in the comments below. Let this space be a community of support and encouragement, where we can all find common ground in our shared journey of faith and transformation.
Mike Tobias
