Eternal Value = Imitating Christ

I am currently reading in 1 Thessalonians where Paul starts out in his usual manner, "Grace to you and peace..." etc. He tells the Thessalonians that he continually prays for them and "makes mention" of them to the Lord. He speaks of their conversion and the power of God shown through their new belief in the gospel.

Paul goes on to mention how the Thessalonians became imitators of them and of the Lord even in the midst of much trial and tribulation, therefore becoming a great example to all of Macedonia and Achaia. They became like a sounding board and broadcast the Gospel not only to these places but in every place their faith toward God went forth. This strikes me and makes me think about the average Christian walk in America. So many people look for what is popular and "hip" and they strive for it and live as if their lives are only as great as the next big fad. I know that we can all get caught in this. I know that I do...

It's fun to keep up with the newest Christian bands. Churches with bookstores and coffee shops are pretty hip and cool. I like being comfortable and served...but is the church where I should seek my personal comfort? Nope. As imitators of Christ, we come not to be served but to serve. Because of this call to be like Him, our faith and the spread of the Gospel are so much more important than popularity and relevance in this generation.

We are living lives that have eternal value. We can choose to place our bet on worldly things and our eternal value is wasted. If we are actively choosing to work in light of the Kingdom our eternal value is multiplied a thousandfold!

All in all I guess I am trying to make a point of the importance of our role as imitators. We can imitate the world and be no earthly good whatsoever, or we can imitate Christ and be and ambassadors for the Kingdom of the Almighty God. Which do you choose?