Introduction
For over two thousand years, the church has made the profession of faith: JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, meaning that Christ is the master and ruler of the universe. He is control. He has all power and all authority, both in heaven and on earth. To put it is simply, Jesus Christ is large and in charge. If someone is truly a Christian, then that person has surrendered his/her life to Christ. This surrender of our lives to Jesus Christ means that we not only attend Church on Sunday mornings as if we are doing God a favor. But it means that we also make Christ the very center of our lives. We lay at the feet of Christ our desires, our families, our jobs, our plans, our ministries, our decisions, even our finances. Over the last two thousand years, faithful men and women have not only proclaimed that Jesus Christ is Lord, but many of them have given their very lives for him. It was not uncommon during the early days of the church for Christians to be bound, jailed, scourged, racked, burned, rent and butchered. And even today, in countries such as China and Afghanistan, Christians are persecuted and even killed for the faith. For those dear saints and for we in the West who stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters worldwide, the supreme Lordship of Jesus Christ is a powerful reality.
Making it Practical
Here are some practical exercises that individuals and families can engage in to reflect on the Lordship of Jesus Christ:
- Daily Devotions: Set aside time each day for personal or family devotions. Use this time to read and meditate on passages from the Bible that emphasize Jesus Christ's Lordship, such as Philippians 2:9-11 or Colossians 1:15-20. Discuss together what it means for Jesus to be Lord and how his lordship impacts various aspects of life.
- Prayer Walks: Take regular walks in your neighborhood or a nearby park and use this time for prayer. As you walk, reflect on the Lordship of Jesus Christ over creation and his presence in every aspect of your surroundings. Pray for specific areas where you need to submit to his lordship more fully.
- Scripture Memorization: Choose key verses that highlight Jesus Christ's Lordship and commit them to memory individually or as a family. Repeat these verses regularly and discuss their significance during meal times or family gatherings.
- Journaling: Encourage each family member to keep a journal where they can reflect on how they have experienced Jesus Christ's Lordship in their lives. Write down prayers, thoughts, and insights about surrendering different areas of life to his authority.
- Service Projects: Engage in service projects as a family, whether it's volunteering at a local shelter, helping neighbors in need, or participating in community clean-up efforts. Use these opportunities to demonstrate Jesus Christ's Lordship through acts of love and compassion towards others.
- Community Engagement: Get involved in your church or community group and participate in activities that focus on worshiping Jesus Christ as Lord. This could include attending church services, joining a small group Bible study, or participating in outreach events.
- Family Discussions: Schedule regular family discussions where you can talk openly about how each member is submitting to Jesus Christ's Lordship in their individual lives. Share struggles, victories, and insights, and encourage one another to grow in faith and obedience.
- Reflection Retreats: Plan occasional retreats or mini getaways as a family to intentionally focus on Jesus Christ's Lordship. Use this time for prayer, Bible study, reflection, and goal-setting as you seek to align your lives more closely with his will.
By incorporating these practical exercises into your routine, you can cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation for the Lordship of Jesus Christ both individually and as a family.
Have a wonderful day!
Blessings,
Wilfred Graves Jr.
www.wilfredgraves.org
Wilfred Graves Ministries, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Your gift is tax-deductible as a charitable contribution.
Will Henry says
This segment of the family walking with the Lord is very vital to the survival of humanity and appreciation for God’s focus on the family.
Thank you, Dr. Graves, for your insights.
Will Henry