Rev. Klockers: Thinking beyond what Jesus would do

Ephesians 5:17, from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, says: “So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”

For the Christian, having second (or even third) thoughts should be a natural thing. How is this so?

Well, the world may teach us things that are contrary to the Christian walk.

Our first inclination might be to follow them; however, there is a better way.

Seeing “through the lens of Christ” helps.

What am I talking about? A number of years ago, this slogan became quite popular: “What would Jesus do?” It was a reminder for Christians to act as our savior would do.

Then, several years later, that jingle was reconstituted: “What would Jesus have me do?”

This went further – emphasizing even more of a personal calling to be acted upon.

Now I was thinking, maybe it is time to change this up again? I am all for it. I would propose: “What would Jesus have us do?”

You see what I did there? The pronoun went from singular to plural. Hey, I’m all for a “me and Jesus” relationship, but much more can be accomplished, for the good of humanity, if more people would promote acting together for a cause.

A person might encounter a challenging situation. Their first inclination might be to walk away and let that be someone else’s problem. However, their conscience may eventually get the better of them; and they have a change of heart.

They might ask themselves what Jesus would do, which could lead to what Jesus would have them do. Hopefully, this would lead them further – to consider a third option.

If that person brainstormed with other like-minded individuals, and they acted together, more could be accomplished.

So, what would Jesus have us do?

Walter is pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Moses Lake and has served as parish pastor for more than 30 years.