With the sure knowledge the loving Trinitarian Presence is alongside us, we readily see that partnering with God himself is indispensable in the dayby- day process of spiritual transformation to Christlikeness.
“And the Lord – who is the Spirit – makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image”* Now comes the other non-negotiable if we are hoping at all to see an actual long-term trajectory for the good taking place in our life.
We ask, “What again is the goal?”
The end game for that distinctive band of individuals whom Christ refers to as his disciples is this. A disciple (some prefer the synonymous term apprentice) is anyone who is purposefully on a humble trajectory of taking on an indisputably clear resemblance to Jesus.
And that other “non-negotiable”, linked to our partnering with God on this remarkable venture?
Practicing. Training. If you are anything like me, a lot of yardage lies out front. Separating us from the finish line. On some days, the goal post (representing any consistent resemblance to Christ) looks to me like a faint mirage far downfield. A word for this, Welcome to the apprenticing life.
The most wonderful – and relieving – news about any believers’ forward movement in Christian apprenticeship is this. We travel in the company of the most delightful mentor. Patient and encouraging beyond words, the most brilliant, gracious and capable guide. Jesus, the best friend and companion one could hope for. Ever.
*2 Corinthians 3:18 -©2025 Jerry Lout Writer/Speaker Jerry Lout grew up in Okmulgee County. Jerry’s “Living with a Limp” and “Giants in the Rough” are available through Amazon. Current projects include “Inside-Out” and “Thresholds” – a string of narratives highlighting surprises, sorrows and adventure in the post-Africa years. Jerry welcomes reader comments at jerrylout@gmail.com and 918857-4373.
