What Would Jesus Do in 2018?
I’ve been sitting on this post for over six months trying to decide whether to post it. It’s out of my comfort zone and makes me feel nervous, and I’ve deleted it and rewritten it many times. But sometimes it’s important to be open about what you stand for and I have some things I want to say about my faith and the world right now.
I’ve posted about what I believe before, and what it means to me to be a Christian, a follower of Jesus, but I want to be really honest with you about my personal journey and where I am at today.
I was a Christian teenager in the 90’s, which means I grew up during the WWJD movement. The acronym stood for “What Would Jesus Do?” and the idea behind it was to encourage Christians to ask themselves this throughout the day, and model every action on Jesus himself.
Interestingly enough, as a Christian teenager, I actually missed the entire point, and failed a lot at the very heart of who Jesus is. I am a rule lover, I always have been, so I did pretty great at “morality” and doing my best not to do anything “wrong”. What I completely messed up at, was showing grace, love and forgiveness, and I ended up being a self righteous judgmental jerk.
Does this sound at all familiar to anyone?
Lately I’m seeing Christianity being blamed for a lot of things, and similarly a lot of people claiming their hateful thoughts and actions are Christian.
And I am becoming concerned. In fact I’m a little horrified.
Jesus preached forgiveness of sins, and love that covers all. He was a perfect model for being kind and compassionate. He spent his time with members of society who were rejected and considered undesirable or worthless. He showed them love and encouraged them to follow him and leave their old lives behind. He was infinitely inclusive and full of patience. He forgave and he was merciful. He was non-violent and lacked any hate. He did not force anyone to follow him- he gave them the option. He did not tow the line – he challenged the status quo. He was hated by the leaders of the day for his radical teachings. And he sacrificed, giving his very life as atonement for anyone who will take it.
And as a Christian, THIS is what I should be trying to emulate in my own life.
So here I am in 2018 and I am asking myself that question again, and again and again: What would Jesus do?
And this time, I know the answer begins and ends with the love of Jesus. I have already made the mistake of misunderstanding what it means to be a Christian and I never want to go back.
I am doubling down on reading Jesus’ words. I am doubling down on praying for God to show me what more I can do. For strength to do better than yesterday. I am doubling down on holding myself accountable to the example of Jesus every day. I will give more. I will love more. And if I stumble, I will get back up and try again tomorrow.
This is where I stand.
Whoever you are reading this, you are welcome here. I promise you kindness and friendship. When I say I am a Christian I am not describing a culturally conservative personal identity. I am telling you that I am an imperfect person fully aware of my short comings and trying to follow Jesus’ loving example every day.
And on the flip side I am hoping that when you see someone using the name of Jesus or Christianity as their excuse for thinking or doing something terrible, that you will remember this post.
Meg
Meg is the Founder and Creative Director of Megan Nielsen Patterns, and is constantly dreaming up ideas for new sewing patterns and ways to make your sewing journey more enjoyable! She gets really excited about design details and is always trying to add way too many variations to our patterns.
194 comments
Beautifully said. Thank you Megan.
Thanks Martha I really appreciate that xo
You posted this when you were supposed to post it. God’s timing is everything.
Do not continue to beat yourself up for how you acted as a child, for now you think clearly. We all grow & learn on our life journey some in more positive ways than others. It’s not easy to truely follow Christ’s teachings of love , forgiveness & turning the other cheek as you say we must pick ourselves up & continue each & every day.
Blessings to you
BeccaG
Thanks Becca, I really appreciate you reading and your wonderful encouragement :) I’m glad we have a lifetime to grow and keep trying! xo
Thanks so much for sharing this! I too struggle to live out the Love of Jesus in my life. The unconditional love he showed for the world can be so difficult to understand and grasp.
I couldn’t agree more – it’s hard but i’m glad we’re in it together :)
Good words to live by!
Herzliche Grüße,
Rebecca
Thanks Rebecca :)
Thank you for sharing. Through God’s grace all is possible!
I couldn’t agree more!
Sometimes I get the impression that I am the only person struggling to live out the love of Jesus in my life…Thanks for sharing ?. Blessings from Germany
Is there anything better than realising you’re not the only person struggling with something? I’m so encouraged to know we are going through the same thing. Thanks for commenting Karin!
Beautiful article. Indeed, striving to follow Jesus as the bible says, not as we humans have portrayed him , is the best way to go.
You are honest in your article and I truly believe that God who sees the inner you will answer your hearts desire.
May he help us all !
Thanks Joyce :) I agree with your thoughts and am so glad you enjoyed the post! xo
Beautifully said.
Thanks Mary xoxo
Well said ?
Oh Megan – your words touched my heart because daily I have to explain to others that while I’m a Christian – I’m not one of the ones who’s words and actions spew hate to the less fortunate. Daily I have to exhibit God’s love for EVERYONE so that people see what attracted me to live my life for Jesus! That love, grace and mercy are the true tenants of Jesus and that many that say they come in His name are NOT exhibiting the hallmarks of Christ. So thank you so much for a wonderful post and as someone said earlier, this is the perfect time for you to post this. We need to be lights in the darkness of this world. I love you my Sister in Christ!
Carolyn yes to all of this! You have described exactly what i’ve been thinking and feeling and experiencing and that same frustration is mine as well. You are one of my favourite people to follow on IG for the truth you always speak, and i love that we are on this journey together. My love back to you XOXO
Hi Megan, thank you for this post. It has reminded me of who I should be striving to emulate I also grew up with the WWJD movement in the 90’s so this post, your words, it all feels like my story. You are such a great person. May God bless you
Nishia thanks so much for reading and responding – i’m so encouraged to know we’ve gone on a similar journey and am so glad you found it encouraging too :) Meg xo
Thank you for sharing your post. Love and Grace seem like they should be so easy to give, but that is why Jesus, the perfector of all things, was the only one truly able to give it to all. The more I dig into the Word, the more I realize this job is a lot tougher than it seems. Keep on your journey!
Nancy I couldn’t agree more – the more i read the Word the more work i know there is to do :) Thanks for reading and for the encouragement!
Well said. I can’t agree more. Love your courage for posting.
Thanks Sherry I’m glad i’m not the only one :) Thanks so much for reading and for love XO
Thank you for sharing and acknowledging this, in such a beautiful way. I’m not Christian, and have often been really put off by people using religion to justify hate. Frequently I’ve thought “aren’t there christians who disagree with this?” but they’re often significantly less vocal so you can’t always hear them. Thank you for being a great reminder that true Christianity is rooted in love and acceptance.
Kendra thank you SO much for reading and replying – honestly, I agree so much and am often thinking those exact same thoughts – and I think you are right, not enough of us are being vocal about the fact that we disagree, and that needs to change :) xo
Thank you for posting this. Amen!
Thank you for sharing this – I really admire that you have. Like you, I find it so easy to slip from loving Jesus to following rules. But it’s one of the amazing (flabbergasting!) things about the family God gives us that someone we’ve never met but with whom we are tightly knit can call us again to love him and others. Thank you for being that person today!
Hannah thank you so much – i’m honestly really encouraged to know i’m not the only one who struggles with that. It took me a shockingly long time to figure out that i needed grace too, and it was really humbling in a big way. Thanks for the encouragement and love today XO
Thank you so much for posting this. Your words completely reflect my growth in my beliefs, as well as where my heart stands in today’s political/social climate. Too many people seam to find ways to distort the Bible to justify their erroneous and sometimes just plain scary opinions, and all I can think is, “My Jesus would never agree to this.” I also hope that more will learn to keep an open mind as to the broad spectrum of us who identify as Christians. Once again, thank you.
I’m so glad i’m not the only one Michelle – it’s a rough time at the moment, and I find myself thinking those exact same things daily, feeling worn down by God’s word being misused and our faith being so inaccurately portrayed. Thanks for reading and for being such a wonderful encouragement today :)
I’m not a Christian, but studied for years in Christian schools and understood and respect the religion enough to know that this is what Christ was all about – Love, forgiveness, Acceptance, Service. I am stunned by how some may use the pretext of religion for justification of their own horrid selfish actions.
I couldn’t agree more. Stunned is the perfect word for it. Thanks so much for reading and adding your thoughts, it means a lot :)
Best Blog Post I have read this year!!!! Great job!
Gosh thanks so much Jas! I was honestly so nervous and i’m so glad it resonated with you :)
Great post Megan. Glad I’m not the only one thinking this. Completely agree with you. Thank you for sharing and being so open about your faith.
Honestly, I am so glad i’m not the only one! I feel so encouraged reading everyones comments today. Thank you so much for adding your thoughts, and letting me know i’m not alone in this! xo
Megan , I needed to read this today as I remembered my daughter’s death 4 years ago. I stood with her 2 sons, her husband and my husband by her graveside, your words h..’ve given me some hope in this desolate life. Thank you for turning my face to The Lord and to be washed in his love. Kathryn
Oh Kathryn I can’t even imagine. I’m so glad that my words were some encouragement to you – thank you so much for sharing with me. Praying for peace for you on what must be an incredibly difficult day for your family. much love XO
Thank you Megan for responding to the Holy Spirit in you and speaking from your heart. You have made God smile a little wider today….because His eyes roam throughout the earth looking for someone whose heart is fully committed to Him….you have taken a courageous step and it is my prayer that you will be blessed abundantly for speaking truth in love.
Thanks for the wonderful encouragement today :)
A thoughtful and timely post. Thanks for the inspiration as I, too, try to be a better follower of Christ.
I’m so glad it resonated with you Cynthia – thanks so much for reading, and i’m so glad we’re on this journey together XO
Beautiful courage. I find it a challenge to stand boldly in the world and say “I am a Christian!” Thanks for standing boldly.
Thanks KM, i really appreciate the kind words :) Admittedly it was really hard, and i was very very nervous hehehe
Eloquent and so apt. For today and every day!
Thanks honey, i’m so glad it resonated with you :)
I am pretty firmly non-religious but am not anti-religion. I’ve made a point over the years of reading the holy books of various religions including the Bible. And I have been frustrated by some supporting their hate-filled words with scripture.
I agree that you didn’t post because it wasn’t the time to, and now it is.
I’m glad you’ve been able to self-reflect and to share your experiences, thoughts and feelings.
Thanks so much for adding your thoughts and for your kindness. I’m relieved to know i’m not the only one frustrated. Thank you so much for sharing today!
Dear Megan,
While I believe in Jesus as a historical figure (who did all the things you mentioned so eloquently in this post), I am not a Christian. But what you have said today is a beautiful and earnest thing. I have to admit that although I went to Christian schools, and grew up in a small town with 52 churches, I didn’t meet any Christians who spoke about forgiveness and challenging the status quo, and I was put off the faith by the judgemental hypocrisy of people who thought it was more important to point fingers at others than it was to love them. I sincerely hope that what you have written here will find its way into the hearts of many, and know that you have touched the heart of this jaded agnostic.
Thank you SO much for sharing your thoughts with me – I am so touched by your story, it is unfortunately quite familiar to me. I’m sorry that has been your experience, and I know it has been the experience of many many people. I’m so grateful that you gave my post a chance, and that you shared your feelings too. Thank you!! xo
I would like to make a copy of your post and with your permission share it with my Sunday School class.
With your permission I would like to make of copy of your post and share it with my Sunday School class.
Oh Joan I am so touched! Of course, please feel free to – i’m so happy that it resonated with you:)
Hi Megan –
It takes a long tine to discover how we are meant to treat our fellow humans. We face new challenges every day in this crazy world. I believe that if each of us keep chipping away doing our part to make changes in the lives of those around us – a smile, a compliment, a helping hand, a hug – eventually we will overcome all of those that simply wear the name tag Christian rather than practice the faith.
Patti
I agree so much – it takes so much time to grow and I am so encouraged by your beautiful words, we will just keep chipping away :) Thank you!! xo
Beautifully put – you speak the truth that all of us need to hear on a regular basis. This post, Jen Hatmaker, and some wonderful people in my life all keep me going through these dark-feeling times in America. Thank you.
Debbi i am honestly so happy this post resonated with you and gave you encouragement. I know it’s a dark time right now, but i’m hoping and praying we will all get through it. We are not alone :)
Beautifully stated! So very thankful for the Lord working in your heart to share what He has and is doing in your life. Thank you for being bold and courageous. Ps. 25:4&5
Thanks so much Tina, I really appreciate that :) xo
Very well said. Thank you very inspiring.
Thanks Audra i’m so glad it resonated with you :)
Thank you for this beautiful post. I am also saddened and angered by the actions of people towards each other this days. I am disgusted with our leaders in government and in Congress. I am horrified by the examples they are showing our young people. I am a Christian. I believe in following WWJD and I also believe in obeying the law whether I agree with it or not. I believe there is a right way and a wrong way to change the things we don’t agree with. Our world would be a wonderful place if everyone would do what Jesus would do.
I share your feelings, and I really understand. Thanks so much for reading and for adding your thoughts, it’s encouraging at least to know there are so many of us feeling the same way right now :)
This is a well written post and one that needs repeating by many others, because you are correct that too many people are doing horrid things and claiming to be Christians. I often feel that they should go back to WWJD and maybe they would see that this hatred is NOT what Jesus would do. Thanks for the post.
Thanks so much Mary – i know, it really is disheartening, but i’m so encouraged to see so many of us determined to do our very best :)
Well said! Thank you for sharing.
Thanks Rebecca, i’m so glad it resonated with you XO
I love this Megan! Well done for speaking out and being so humble. As a Christian I occasionally get comments from colleagues that it’s easier for me to be kind or forgiving because of my faith, if only they knew I struggle like them every day to be more like Jesus.
I know exactly what you mean, it is a daily struggle, but i’m so glad that we are in it together doing our best every day. Hugs honey!! xo
A beautiful statement of your faith. Thank you for sharing this.
Thanks Jackie I really appreciate that :)
This is so beautifully written. Thank you for sharing your stance, like you I find myself horrified by “Christians” and the way our world is today. Thank you for the simple reminder to actually read the word, pray and figure out what Jesus would actually do.
Thanks for reading and for adding your thoughts here :) I”m honestly so encouraged to see how many people are feeling the same things and making the same resolutions :) XO
Megan, thank you for sharing. Very well said. I agree wholeheartedly. We need to stand up and show what Christianity really is and been that voice of hope. Thank you for your boldness and kindness!
Thanks so much Lynette, i was more than a little nervous about posting – but it’s been so wonderful to see how many people are in the same place with their feelings and I feel really encouraged!
Hi I m not a Christian but I do have the same thoughts as you. Thoughts of humanity. Wish we lived closer. I think we would be friends ?
Gerda I am so glad it resonated with you, and I am so encouraged to see so many people sharing these same thoughts and frustrations. I too wish we all lived much closer :)
I appreciate both your sincerity and the message behind your words. It’s easy to vilify Christians right now, I think, for putting the “label” behind a lot of hateful and exclusionary acts that, as you say, have nothing to do with the teachings of Christ. Thank you for this reminder that the religion/philosophy/person behind Christianity has nothing to do with the perversions being enacted in his name, and is in fact the answer and not the problem.
So perfectly put – I agree so much with what you’ve said Malena, and it is really frustrating and heartbreaking at the moment. Thanks so much for adding your thoughts and encouragement – i really appreciate it so much!
THANK YOU MEGAN FOR SUCH A MOVING POST!
Dara i’m so glad it resonated with you!! Hugs! xo
Love this! I too have had the same journey as a 90s teenager with a WWJD bracelet! I could kick myself just thinking of how horrible of a “Christian” I was back then! Thank you for writing this; It takes strength to share your faith and it’s not always well received… so thank you for being an example of Gods strength!
Oh Amy the bracelets! Yes I could kick myself too, I cringe when I think of it – but i’m grateful to have had the opportunity to grow. Thank you so much for the kind words and encouragement, i was honestly more than a little nervous about the reaction :)
Dear Megan, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. It is hard to step out of our comfort zone.
As an American Christian who believes in the words of Jesus (I’m not an evangelical but why do I even have to write that!) and His actions, I feel as though I’m floundering. Not in my faith but on what is happening in the world—so much hate and judgment, it’s so distressing.
My country is torn into two factions that have closed off communications. If only Jesus’s words could penetrate the hard hearts. It seems the entire world is shifting/has shifted into chaos. But I have the peace of my faith.
Your post allowed me to be mournful for humankind. Thank you.
Peace be with you.
Leigh I really do feel for you – I love America, and it breaks my heart to see so much conflict amongst people i love so much. I really appreciate you reading and sharing your thoughts, and i’m encouraged to know we are feeling the same things and aiming for the same goal :) Will be thinking of you! xo
Hey girl,
I am not a christian or religious in any way, but I so appreciate you sending this message out into the world. I feel like it has become so scary for people to “come out” as religious, or share your political views, or just be yourself. So many times people lash out and get angry, but we are all uniquely ourselves.
It’s okay to say what you believe and tell people its okay if they believe different. I wish everyone was as open and accepting. Thank you for sharing this super awesome personal story with us all and I cannot wait to read more.
XO Tay
Hi Tay! I agree with you, it has sadly become scary to share your faith or political view etc but i’m equally excited to see how many people are feeling similar things to me, and full of love and encouragement. Thanks so much for your encouraging words – hugs!
Amen. Well said, Megan. I know that it takes courage to stand up for what you believe and and you have set a good example. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks Charlene, it’s been heavy on my heart for some time and it feels so good to have said it :) Thanks for reading and for the kind words! xo
Wow. I’m so glad you wrote this for all to see. I too know Jesus to be my lord n teacher. Love is the way. Biblical forgiveness is not letting people off the hook. It means washing away the mud being thrown on me n giving the judgement reins to God himself. For that freedom of me not having to judge Jesus set us free. Forgiveness is a process n takes the time to let go of all my negative feelings.
So you go girl. Love shirley
Shirley thanks so much for the kind words – i’m so glad it resonated with you and it’s so encouraging to know i’m not alone. hugs!
This is exactly how I feel, too. I also grew up with the WWJD movement, with the bracelet and all the iconic 90s Christian culture. I tried to make others follow what I thought were the right Christian rules and lost a lot of friends that way. I am so thankful that in the past decade I have learned so much more about grace and love but it is a constant struggle to make sure that I am living out what I know and believe. The past couple years have been especially difficult to love and welcome each person regardless of politics, etc. so I am glad that you wrote this post to remind me! Thank you for sharing this and being open and honest with your thoughts and beliefs!
Oh Raena the bracelets! Me too! I’m so glad i’m not the only one, and i’m so encouraged to see so many of us coming to the same thoughts and resolutions! XOXO
Thank you for sharing your concerns and doing it in an understandable manner. Hate has been spreading and the knee jerk reactions on social media are adding to it. We need more respect, tolerance, and kindness.
Thanks for reading and for adding your thoughts :) I agree, it’s become a very slippery slope but seeing so many of us trying to go in the same positive direction is giving me hope :)