After Christmas, it helps to remember that Christian life is just that: it is a life, not a set of beliefs or rituals. Much of the damage we can do is because we somehow allow ideology or tradition define Christian faith rather than the particular way of life it is supposed to be.
Colossians 3:12-17 can help us here. Paul gives us some specific instructions on how to live this life. For those who are "chosen of God, holy and beloved (and that includes anyone willing to receive grace), life is to be lived with the determination to:
Choose compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Even when we don't feel like it. Especially when we don't feel like it. Because this is what Jesus himself is.
Bear with and forgive each other. There can be no other way to reflect God's goodness to us.
Make love the goal for everything we do. Not success, wealth, power, or any of the values that culture tells us are ultimate.
Allow the peace of Christ to rule us. Even in the midst of strain, conflict, and doubt.
Let the word of Christ be our wisdom. Not Wall Street, the popular media, conventional thinking, or the political correctness of either the right or the left.
Do everything in the name of Jesus. Work, leisure, common tasks, relationships with others.
A complete lifestyle.
All of these are choices. They are part of a determined, disciplined life. It is the way of Jesus Christ, and it is for all of his followers.
Christmas is a great story; Christianity is a great way of life.
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