what you show is what you get

Not speaking the language of the country in which you live is full of more challenges than one could ever imagine. Some of the simple everyday things that were once taken for granted have become hard, and the things that were once difficult have become impossible.

Just imagine going to the DMV when you don’t speak the language!

But one thing I never considered was getting a haircut. It’s just always been so simple. “So… how would you like it cut?” A little longer on the top, a little shorter on the sides, round off the back… we are good to go.

Not anymore.

I quickly realized that it becomes more of a game of charades than it does actually getting a haircut.

And as it turns out… showing a picture of what you want them to do is so much more effective than actually telling them what you want. That is, unless you don’t absolutely love the picture you are showing them.

Because… What you show is what you get. Period.

And it’s really the same thing spiritually. While telling someone how to live like Jesus has its benefits, nothing can replace SHOWING someone how to live like Jesus.

After washing the disciple’s feet as an act of service, Jesus told them:

“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.”

Jesus knew something about discipleship and transforming lives. There was so much more power in actually demonstrating service than merely telling them to go serve.

So what does your life demonstrate?

Or perhaps the bigger question… Is your life a picture of Jesus?

As individuals with a mission to make followers, that has to be our pursuit. Because when it comes to discipleship…

What you show is what you get. Period.