Over the past few months I have reflected on the concept of character. Some nights have been difficult to sleep because I continually ask myself if I have the character Christ exemplified. I have come to realize that perhaps we never “arrive”; that maybe it is an ongoing process. I may not possess the character Christ lived throughout his entire life but if I desire to become the man God has called me to be, I must continually strive towards this goal.

It can get tricky though…we live in Vegas! Everywhere we look something is “off” and makes our city unique. From the billboards to casinos, arcades to topless shows, living a life of character can be challenging. The difference is those who accept the challenge and those who settle because “this is how it is”. What is it that trips you up? What are the temptations that cross your everyday thoughts?

Here is what I can say about myself. I am hardly an angel and I despise the transgressions that negate the Christ – like character I long to have. However I believe that we must continue to challenge ourselves and hang up the excuses. Anyone can live the ordinary life of sin. Fortunately that is not what I want to be about and I hope you feel the same way. Working with students has made me realize my everyday decisions do matter. Students want to know about my life, they are interested in my everyday activities, but what good am I if my lifestyle is not a reflection of who I claim to be.

If you have taken the time to read these few paragraphs I hope you question who you really are. A friend of mine told me this the other day and I wrote it down so I would never forget. He said if you choose to lead students, you better lead them towards Jesus. Easier said than done, but it begins with who I am outside of the church walls. It begins with character…gage yours!

Jeff Kiwanuka

Fuse Junior High