Friend, Jesus of Nazareth was not a mythical, fictional character, created by our imagination. He was a real person like you and me. However, unlike you and me, Jesus had a pure heart and a flawless character.

In fact, His mercy was so overflowing, that He never missed a chance to forgive. No lie left His lips, no distraction marred His vision. -- He compassionately touched people, when others were repulsed by them. -- He endured hardships when others quit. And by portraying these qualities, which reveal to us the loving heart of God, Jesus is beyond doubt, the ultimate model for every person upon the face of this earth.

Napoleon Bonaparte was heard on one occasion to say, that "Alexander, Caesar, Charlemagne, and myself have founded empires; but upon what do these creations of our genius depend?-Upon Force! - By contrast, Jesus founded His kingdom upon sacrificial love: -- And to this very day, millions of people would die for Him."

What a profound statement that is, and TODAY, I want to encourage YOU to think about Jesus in a new way. You see, when Jesus walked upon this earth, He talked about life. His compassionate concern was for people. He wanted them to be spiritually alive, to enjoy their work, to be involved in meaningful relationships, and to live above their fears and insecurities.

Jesus also made it very clear, that God rewards those who diligently seek Him. And He wasn't talking about people who seek doctrine, or religion, or systems, or creeds. Unfortunately, too many people settle for these lesser passions, but the reward God offers, goes to those people who settle for nothing less than trusting their lives to Jesus Himself. - However, as you're listening to what I've just said, you may be asking yourself "What is the reward? - What can those people who seek to know and do the will of Jesus expect?"

Well, the answer to those questions I have just asked, is this, that if you are willing to believe and trust your life to Jesus, you will become like Him! -- And when you really stop to think about it,can you think of any greater gift than to be like Jesus?

Friends, the message of the Bible is that God loves you just the way you are, but He refuses to leave you that way. The truth is He wants you to be just like Jesus!
Jesus felt no guilt; And God wants to banish yours.
Jesus had no bad habits; and God wants to remove yours.
Jesus had no fear of death; and God wants you to be fearless.
Jesus also had kindness for those who suffered sickness. He had mercy for those who were rebellious. He also provided courage for those people who were experiencing challenges in their lives; But what is even more wonderful, is that God also wants you and me to experience the kindness, mercy, and courage that He freely makes available to everyone who believes and trusts their lives to Jesus.

Perhaps YOU are seeking Love, Peace, Meaning, and Purpose in your life? If so, let me assure you, that all you're looking for is to be found in a personal relationship with Jesus." - You see, our Loving God longs to have a personal relationship with YOU! - All you need to do in order to experience this life-changing relationship, is to Believe and trust your life to Jesus!

Today, on behalf of the Discovering A BETTER LIFE team, let me ask you a final question. - Are YOU willing to Believe and trust your life to Jesus! I hope so! However, if you would like to know more about Jesus of Nazareth, before you believe and trust your life to Him, we'd be happy to send you our booklet titled, "Who is this Jesus?" For your FREE copy, write to Discovering A BETTER LIFE, P.O. Box 1540, Albany, WA 6331 You may also Phone your request on: 98 418 418 or Email us at: abl-alb@omninet.net.au

Friend, we look forward to sharing more thoughts with you next week. But until then, may God bless you with His comforting love, joy, and peace.