"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." - John 15:13
In our journey through life, many of us are on a relentless quest for more—more knowledge, more comfort, more success. We strive to create a life free from hardship and sacrifice, believing that this is the path to happiness. Yet, despite our efforts, we find ourselves feeling empty, losing heart in the pursuit of something more.
Jesus turned this idea on its head when He said that the true way to find life is by losing it. This unexpected statement invites us to rethink our approach to living fully. It's about going all in, being willing to sacrifice for something greater than ourselves by dying to self.
What Does "Dying To Self" Mean?
When we talk about "dying to self," we mean letting go of our selfish desires and putting Jesus and others first. It's about living a life of contagious love, where our actions inspire and uplift those around us. We believe that true fulfillment comes not from what we gain, but from what we give. Dying to self is the path to that fulfillment.
Ask Yourself: What am I holding onto that prevents me from fully experiencing the life I'm seeking by dying to self?
Going All In
Living this way requires a radical shift in our mindset. It means being willing to invite others into our lives, serve without expecting anything in return, connect deeply with those around us, help wherever there's a need, give generously, and lead with humility, all while keeping Jesus at the center of our actions and intentions. Dying to self is essential in each of these actions.
Reflect: In what areas of my life can I go all in and make a difference by dying to self?
The Beauty of Sacrifice
Sacrifice is often seen as a loss, but in the context of living for Jesus and others, it becomes a gain. By putting Jesus and others first, we find a deeper sense of purpose and joy. Our lives become richer, not because of what we have, but because of what we give away. Dying to self transforms our perspective on sacrifice.
Consider: How can my sacrifices today lead to a more fulfilling life tomorrow through dying to self?
A Community of Love
Imagine being part of a community that is committed to dying to self. A place where people contagiously invite, serve, connect, help, give, and lead. This is the kind of community we want to build—a place where love and sacrifice, grounded in faith in Jesus, are at the core of everything we do.
Ponder: What steps can I take to contribute to such a community through dying to self?
Embrace the Journey
Dying to self isn't easy. It challenges us to let go of our own plans and trust in a greater purpose. But the journey is worth it. As we lay down our lives for Jesus and others, we discover the true life we've been looking for—a life filled with love, joy, and deep, meaningful connections. Dying to self is the key to unlocking this life.
Final Thought: Am I ready to embrace this journey and experience the life that comes from dying to self?
Join us as we commit to this different way of living. Let's go all in together, creating a community where love and sacrifice, centered on Jesus, lead to a life truly worth living through dying to self.
Comments