Strive. The word conjures up an image of hard work and effort, and rightly so, as that is it’s meaning. I am of retiring age so I do not feel the need to strive so hard at this stage in my life. Except for one thing very specific—strive to be more like Jesus.

I know folk like me far better when I example these traits Jesus showed us which we are called to live by and strive for: Honesty, dependability, giving others the benefit of the doubt, treating others the way we want to be treated, tender-hearted and forgiving, just to name a few. Would you agree?

Yet, Jesus is rejected by many of those He loves and came for. It seems rather like one dismissing a parent, yet at the same time selfishly taking and receiving all the wonderful benefits the parent has bestowed on the child. Does this make any sense to you, dear reader?