The Foundations of a Christ-Centered Life

A Personal Connection with Jesus

This connection is real, though not physical. It can be experienced internally and observed in everyday life. The foundation of this relationship is built on getting to know Him and following traditional Christian practices. This relationship has a profound impact, changing people from within. We should model our lives on the example Jesus set for us.

A Christian Way of Life

• Being chosen and loved by Christ, who accepts us as friends.
• An opportunity to live according to Christ's words of love and trust, continually growing in faith.
• Finding strength in Christ, which leads to a life of love and profound happiness.
• Loving and serving others, especially the most vulnerable and those in need.
• Embracing life with all its positive and negative aspects, finding meaning, happiness, and joy in the whole experience.
• Feeling a sense of belonging within the community of Jesus's followers, the Church.

How to Encounter Jesus

• Read the New Testament, especially the Gospels. These books provide essential information about Jesus. One cannot be interested in someone they know nothing about.
• Join a Christian community. The Church is the fellowship of Jesus's followers. Many people have found Christ and the strength of His presence through these communities.
• Listen to personal testimonies from other Christians. They often speak of the joy, fulfillment, and purpose they have found. These individuals clearly demonstrate their faith in Jesus.
• Engage in personal prayer. An encounter with Jesus often begins with an internal stirring or feeling during times of prayer and reflection.

Key Christian Vocabulary

• Grace: The love and power from God that enables believers to love Him, Jesus, and others.
• Blessed: To be happy or fortunate. In some traditions, it refers to a person officially recognized as a model of Christian life, worthy of veneration.
• Holy: A term used to describe the nature of God and Jesus. Followers of Jesus are called to be gradually transformed into holiness.

The First Three Commandments

1. You shall love God above all else.
2. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
3. Remember to keep the holy days.