In my devotions lately I’ve been reading a book called The Life of Christ in Stereo. It’s the four gospels combined into one cohesive narrative of Jesus’ life. I’ve read and studied it already several times through the years, but this time, I have one focus: to examine Jesus’ character traits. I’m thinking that if I’m supposed to be like Jesus, then I should seriously investigate what that means.
Many traits have impressed me – Jesus’ patience, His willingness, His ability to listen. This is where I am challenged to grow. Something else has become clear as well. When He’s dealing with individuals, Jesus doesn’t plead, he doesn’t nag. He simply tells the Truth and allows each person to decide for themselves how to respond. The creator of All, who brought our world and our existence into being with His Will and His breath, lovingly gives the Facts and then waits. He trusts. And He does one other thing. He prays. My prayers can sometimes feel like a last resort. When I can’t control something or accomplish what I think is necessary, then I pray. I don’t get the sense that Jesus approaches prayer like I often do. He is intentional with His prayer time and His prayer. He is confident that He is being heard. He is bold and honest. That’s who I want to be when I stand in front of God in prayer.
