Putting skin on Jesus

It’s good to read about what Jesus did when He walked among us. But when you see someone living the way He did, it’s called “putting skin on Jesus.” Instead of just being a historic figure, His lifestyle becomes a reality. And isn’t that what people are looking for? Gandhi once said if he could meet Christians who were like Christ, he’d become one too. Unfortunately, the Christians he knew carried weapons and subjected him and his people to servitude. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Jesus said, “He who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do.” Maybe you’re wondering how we could possibly do greater works than Jesus. Here’s how: He was one man confined to one place, whereas His redeemed family is capable of multiplying His works throughout the world. So what was Jesus like? For starters, He was compassionate, not condemning. Remember the woman caught in the act of adultery? When the Pharisees wanted to stone her, He said, “Let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone” (John 8:7 NLT). Ouch! Who was Jesus talking about? The Pharisees or the religious hierarchy? No, He was talking about Himself. He was the only one without sin and He had no stones to throw! If you want to know what putting skin on Jesus looks like, the Bible lists these nine “fruits” (or Christlike qualities) that the Holy Spirit wants to produce in your life: “Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23 NLT).