As Christians

As Christians
The Apostle Paul wrote,

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; 

the old has gone, the new has come!”

                                                    2 Corinthians 5:17

The apostle Paul could certainly testify to that. He went from a persecutor of believers in Christ, to one of the most prominent proponents of the Church. Eventually dying for the faith he once persecuted.
Paul once wrote,
“Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.  
But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.” 1Timothy 1:15,16
In becoming a follower of Jesus we agree to give up our old life and follow a life that reflects that of Jesus.
The apostle Paul writing to the Romans said,
“What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?  
By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 
Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?  
We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” Romans 6:1-4.
As true followers of Jesus we must live a life that reflects Him. A life of Love for God, one’s neighbour and even one’s enemy.
James the half brother of Jesus said,
“Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom,  
because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!” James 2:12,13.
As followers of Jesus we should be known by our mercy and unconditional love for all people no matter who they are.
There is a very famous prayer by Francis of Assisi that all who call themselves followers of Christ should think at taking to heart it states,

The prayer of St. Francis

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace, 

Where there is hatred, let me sow love;

where there is injury, pardon;

where there is doubt, faith;

where there is despair, hope;

where there is darkness, light;

where there is sadness, joy;

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; 

to be understood as to understand; 

to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive; 

it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; 

and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

                                                               St Francis of Assisi

Please think about it.