I grew up in a setting where Christianity was defined by a set of actions. Christians went to church on Sunday. Christians didn't drink alcohol. Christians dressed a certain way. If one did not engage in these behaviors, then obviously they weren't a Christian. Beyond that, sacrifice for God was seen as both desirable and honorable. For many years, those external behaviors encapsulated Christianity for me.
A turning point for me occured when I realized that I really did not know Jesus. Now don't get me wrong. I knew about Jesus; the Jesus who came to die so I could go to heaven someday. However, I didn't KNOW Jesus. I had preached about Him, baptized in His name, and started churches for Him. However I didn't KNOW Him. The Jesus I knew about was one that I had been given as a child by my religious tradition. I realized that I created a Jesus with which I was comfortable.
As a result of my realization, for several years I read and re-read the gospel accounts of Jesus. I attempted to read each account as if I had never heard about Jesus. Wow! Talk about a mind transformation. I discovered a Jesus that rocked my world theologically. (i.e. - Jesus never stated that He came so we might go to heaven.) In spite of my discomfort, I began to live my life more in accordance with His example.
Today, my walk with God is much more simple than it was earlier. If someone asks me if I am a Christian, I usually respond with "I am a follower of Jesus". I quit trying to build a successful minstry. As I have allowed my interaction with Jesus to re-shape me, I have become more in touch with "love God and love your neighbor". I have discovered life, abundant life as I have followed Him.
Don't make Christianity difficult. Live life according to the example and teaching of Jesus. It really is that simple.
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