Patti Burris

I have found myself contemplating this week, what it means to be wholly committed to God. What would my life look like if I lived my life in radical obedience to God?

The one thing I came up with is that I don’t want to just BE a Christian, I want to BE a follower of Jesus Christ. I want to BE an example of Jesus in this world. But how?

Jesus knew his Father. He was intimate with God through the Word. I need to know the Word of God, so when I am dodging the fiery arrows of the enemy, I will be prepared. I need to know the Word, so when I have an opportunity to witness to someone, I can do so in confidence.

Jesus prayed. Jesus spent many hours in prayer and communication with his Father. I want my prayer life to be about open communication with God. Jesus listened, as much as he prayed. I want to listen to what my Father is telling me. I want to have an open heart, exposed to my heavenly Father.

Jesus obeyed. He never questioned what his Father told him to do. He obeyed even to death on the cross. I want to obey regardless of the consequences. I want to obey without fear, knowing that my God has my back. I want to be zealous for God, never questioning His will.

Jesus loved. Jesus loved everyone. He knew his mission was to the Jews, but that did not stop him from loving and ministering to the Samaritans, the adulteress, the woman with the issue of blood, the leper, etc. I want to love like that. I want to look at everyone around me with eyes of love and not judge because someone may have greasy hair or may smell. Love does not judge!

My Savior Jesus,

Give me a heart like yours. I open my heart to you. Come dwell within me to the point that those around me see more of you, than of me. Teach me to pray like you pray. Teach me the Word of the Father, so that it will be hidden in my heart. Teach me to obey without question. Teach me to love without judgement. My one desire is to be like you. I never want to be cut from the Vine. I am wholly committed to you, Jesus!

Amen

Being wholly committed means that when people see me they see Jesus. I fall flat on my face, at times. My one desire is to be Jesus to this broken world.