Do you live a radical life?

When I consider those within my sphere (or just outside it) who seem to live very Christ-inspired and radical lives, they all share a number of common characteristics. Usually, "the radical" unabashedly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ to whomever, whenever, and however they need to. (Bull horn, anyone?) Usually, "the radical" are loud and outspoken and hold strong convictions about Christian faith and practice. Usually, "the radical" have a keen sense of the work of the Holy Spirit and when the Spirit speaks, "the radical," do. Usually, "the radical" care very little about the impressions sinful man leave on them, but care much about the impression they leave on sinful man. As William Booth once said, "Go for sinners... and for the worst." This epitomizes the work of "the radical." I could go on, but you get the point.

You may be thinking to yourself, "What a gross generalization!" And I'll say, "I agree." This isn't all there is.

Let me tell you about a someone who has given me a new perspective on "radical."
I very recently became friends with someone who is part of the church my family joined after moving across the country. I've had limited interactions with this new friend and haven't really spent any significant "quality time" with her yet. But I tell you, the stories I've heard about this gal. She's a gem. And the impression she has made on my family -- everlasting.

My friend has a conversion story that would blow your socks off. She is deeply and madly in love with the Lord. And among her greatest passions? Her love for kids and her desire to selflessly pour Christ's love and care into them.

After what I understood to be years of ongoing and odd medical issues, my friend underwent major back surgery 2 days ago. Most would suspect that someone in such physical pain would struggle to stay emotionally and even spiritually sound. Well, let me tell you again, she's a gem.

Instead of sulking in her room due to her inability to be mobile, she's been writing countless thank you notes, calling friends to catch up and offer encouragement, and praying and reading the Word like the dickens. Days before and even on the day of my friend's surgery, I received several text messages and even a phone call asking how i was, how my family was, and offering encouraging bits of scripture and inspiring truths with me. I was blown away by her selfless spirit and desire to still connect in with the Body.

This is but a snapshot of the love that my new friend has expressed towards me and my family -- the news guys in town -- and I recognize it as both real and radical. And it's powerful.

What does "radical" look like to you? How has the radical life of Christ manifested itself in you and in the lives of those around you? Who stands out in your sphere and why? Don't always seek out the blaring bull horn or the unabashed preacher -- look for those with the gentle and selfless spirit and heart of gold. Because of Christ, they too, are are making an everlasting impression on the broken and bruised.

Blessings.