If I Don't Look Like Jesus I Should Shut Up

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, "The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat, so practice and observe whatever they tell you—but not what they do.  For they preach, but do not practice." - Matthew 23:1-3 [ESV]

This was the first few verses that came up in my quiet time this afternoon.  OH MY!!! This short passage made me stop and ask the following questions:

1).  Is that what Jesus would tell those that I teach?
2). Does my life reflect Jesus as much as the words that I preach?

I am so passionate about teaching the truth of Scripture.  I want so much to reveal truth to others as God is revealing it to me.  However, am I more passionate in life-change — looking like Jesus more and more every day—or am I a preacher? Am I striving for holiness more than improving in hermeneutics?

"Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you.  Consider the outcome of their faith and imitate their faith." - Hebrews 13:7, [ESV] - ( I can honestly say that the weight of being a pastor/teacher is definitely hitting me as I read and write).  This reminds me of the question that I heard once: If everyone at your church had the same kind of faith that you do, what would your church look like?

Jesus did not come into the world, die on the cross and raise from the dead so that I could have a ministry/mission.  Rather, he came, died and rose from the dead so that I could enjoy a relationship with God.  When I get those out of order is when I am in some major trouble.

God had to stop me today and ask the question: "Are you about me or my work? Are you more concerned with your role as a pastor or your role as my son?" Quite a humbling time today, but I am so thankful for it.