The Marks of a "Changeling"

All you hard-core Star Trek fans know immediately what a Changeling is, but for those who don't here's a definition from Wikipedia: "Changelings are an alien race from the Star Trek universe. They are called Changelings because of their ability to shape-shift. Changelings can turn themselves into almost anything."

Well, let me announce here and now that I'm taking that name and applying to anyone who truly wants to follow Jesus! Why? Because as I said in my last post, change is inevitable...so we better get used to it, and embrace it.

Now, obviously we can't change ourselves "into almost anything," but God can and will change us into the kind of person He intended for us to be all along: One of His own unique kids, who's older brother happens to be Jesus!

We need to seriously cooperate with Him in this process, however. And the best way to start (and continue) is to take on the kind of perspective or mindset that Jesus had. Here's what He had to say about this crucial way of thinking:

"God blesses those who realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is given to them.
God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
God blesses those who are gentle and lowly, for the whole earth will belong to them.
God blesses those who are hungry and thirsty for justice, for they will receive it in full.
God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God.
God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.
God blesses those who are persecuted because they live for God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too." (Matthew 5:3-12)

I suggest you take little time and think about these statements. Each one is an important part of what I call "the marks of changeling," and I'd like to break them down a bit for you as we move ahead. Hope you'll join me....