The Challenge . . .

"What I am going to propose now is something which ought not to appear unusual or at all impossible of execution. Yet I am aware that it will be so regarded by a large number, perhaps, of the members of this church. But in order that we may have a thorough understanding of what we are considering, I will put my proposition very plainly, perhaps bluntly. I want volunteers from the First Church who will pledge themselves, earnestly and honestly for an entire year, not to do anything without first asking the question, 'What would Jesus do?' And after asking that question, each one will follow Jesus as exactly as he knows how, no matter what the result may be. I will of course include myself in this company of volunteers, and shall take for granted that my church here will not be surprised at my future conduct, as based upon this standard of action, and will not oppose whatever is done if they think Christ would do it. Have I made my meaning clear? At the close of the service I want all those members who are willing to join such a company to remain and we will talk over the details of the plan. Our motto will be, 'What would Jesus do?' Our aim will be to act just as He would if He was in our places, regardless of immediate results. In other words, we propose to follow Jesus' steps as closely and as literally as we believe He taught His disciples to do. And those who volunteer to do this will pledge themselves for an entire year, beginning with today, so to act."

Excerpt, Chapter 2 "In His Steps" by Charles M. Sheldon

And I would like to add, that we should record what happens so that we remember God's faithfulness.  This should be something that adds to our testimony.  I've been doing a practice run by recording a few things each day:

• blessings I'm grateful for
• prayers for the day
• encouragement given
• encouragement received
• verse for the day

I try to record 3 things each in the first 4 categories and meditate on a verse each day and how it might apply to my life (it always does!)

So I challenge you, dear reader to do something resembling the above.  Live each day in 2017 for Jesus, record the results (the successes, the failures, the challenges, etc.) and let's spur each other on to a more vibrant faith journey in following our Lord and Savior.