Living an Extraordinary Life as Jesus

We often dream of yearning to experience a life filled with greatness and fulfillment. But what constitutes such a life? The answer to this question will vary from person to person. However, we can find a universally admired example in the life of Jesus. Jesus lived a remarkable life, abundant with profound teachings and demonstrations of God’s holiness and self-giving love that continue to inspire and transform many. He proclaimed the Gospel of the Kingdom, showing compassion to the marginalized and bringing healing to the sick. He freed those tormented by demons and released those burdened by the grasp of the devil. His life was defined by his deep love for the Father and the world, and the Holy Spirit was his close companion from the moment of his birth until his ascension. Whenever Jesus communed with the Father through prayer, his petitions were answered, and all the divine plans were brought to fruition through him. Moreover, he trained and nurtured disciples whose lives and ministries had a profound impact on the world, serving as a testament to the ideals that we, as his followers, should ardently pursue and emulate until the glorious return of the Lord Jesus. How can we live a life as extraordinary as that of Jesus?

1. Do not underestimate the value of suffering, for treasures are often discovered in the most unexpected places. Life filled with suffering may seem like the antithesis of a wonderful life, akin to wandering in darkness. Yet, remember that God is omnipresent, accessible in both light and darkness. As John Piper asserts, “God is the gospel,” the greatest news for the world, even amidst the shadows. God frequently conceals himself in the darkness, and it is there that we should seek him. In Isaiah 45:3, God declares, “I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who calls you by name.” Just as the birthplace of Jesus, a dimly lit manger, concealed God's precious gift from the world, Luke 2:7 recounts, “She gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger because there was no guest room available for them.” It was in this unlikely setting that the greatest treasure lay hidden.

2. Appreciate humble beginnings, for they often lay the foundation of extraordinary lives. In biblical accounts, lepers, living in isolation on society’s fringes, received healing from Jesus. The poor, forsaken by family and friends, battled disabilities. Yet, Jesus sought out these marginalized individuals and performed miracles, restoring their potential, and enabling them to lead remarkable lives. Saul and David, both emerging from humble origins, were chosen by God to become the first and second kings of Israel. Moses, set adrift in a basket on the Nile, could have fallen prey to crocodiles, but instead, he liberated the Israelites from slavery, witnessing wondrous miracles of all times. Many of Jesus’ disciples also hailed from modest backgrounds, yet through their connection with Jesus, they too embarked on extraordinary journeys.

3. Embrace suffering as training when facing inevitable hardships. This is the paradox of God’s use of suffering to bring out wonderful life. Alexis Ohanian once said that in your youth, you want to do something wonderful. But that wonderful thing is likely hidden in a pigsty. It takes a long time to discover that hidden wonderful life (Sorry, I do not have the name of the source). David was driven into the cave of Adullam on the path to a wonderful life. The Judean wilderness was a desolate land plagued by poverty, hardship, and constant peril. It was in this very place that David was nurtured by God. Here, he underwent eleven years of training in the desert until he ultimately ascended to the throne of Judah, extending his dominion to encompass nations far and wide.

Joseph’s extraordinary life also began in a pit, where he was cast and betrayed by his own brothers. The house of Potiphar, where he served as a slave, was far from impressive. Even the prison he was unjustly thrown into, as a consequence of resisting the advances of Potiphar's wife, lacked any sense of magnificence or splendor. However, it was within these seemingly insignificant locations that God’s presence was undeniably felt and enforced. In the darkness, God molded Joseph, teaching him to hold on to hope and dream of the magnificent life that lay before him, a life intricately designed by God for him.

Jesus was born in a humble manger and met his end on a cross - a place of unfathomable suffering and humiliation. He did not face a glorious demise. Prior to his crucifixion, he endured the merciless scourging that left his body drenched in blood, and wore a crown of thorns. Yet, from this horrifying instrument of execution, a profound journey of life unfolded. The redemption of humanity was accomplished, and the most extraordinary blessings were borne from the humblest of origins. However, Jesus’ story did not conclude on the cross. On the third day, he triumphantly rose from the dead, ascending to heaven and receiving a name above all others. He was exalted as the Lord of glory.

Suffering is a profound mystery. Even now, countless missionaries venture into the darkest corners of the world, willingly sacrificing and living extraordinary lives. Just as gold is refined through fire to reveal its true value, suffering can be an integral part of a life aligned with God's purpose. None of us willingly seek or embrace suffering, for it can be overwhelming, painful, and seemingly unending. Yet,  acknowledge that the most exquisite and meaningful life often emerges from suffering and unwavering dedication. We may endure moments of brokenness and devastation, but through this process, our restored selves reflect the beauty of God's grace. By embracing this approach, we can strive to lead lives that reflect the extraordinary example set by Jesus, even when faced with adversity. He stands by our side, sharing our burdens and transforming them into moments that bring glory to his name.

I found guidance in an article penned by Rev. Joonmin Kang.