Christianity isn’t about a set of do’s and don’t. It’s not about a strict abstinence/asceticism or a boundary-less freedom, either. Christianity is about friendship with the God who is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
A friendship is based on intimacy, and friendship with Jesus is simply intimacy with Jesus, the one both fully human as well as fully divine. Friendship with Jesus begins with knowing the person of Jesus from the perspective of His humanity, for no one first began to truly know or follow Him apart from His human existence.
As one grows in friendship with Jesus, the result is the desire to do away with sin—one realizes that such a lifestyle amounts to nothing. Then a life of true and pure holiness takes form—not a holiness based on a particular group’s definition of holiness derived from reaction to certain cultural elements, but a holiness that stems from the heart in love of Christ, His Father, and His Spirit. This holiness is the fruit of friendship with Jesus and made possible by the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, and gives glory to the Father.
the archives near Emmaus 
That was exactly what I needed to hear at this very moment. Thank you!
Stephen,
You’re welcome. I’m glad my musing was a blessing for you. Keep on in the faith!
Great post JohnDave! It’s so nice to hear a wonderful, non reactionary example of the way that holiness takes hold in believers. It is important to focus on relationship with Christ as the rationale for doing away with sin. Great perspectives for the lenten season.
Well said, my friend.
Love this! Good things said well.
@Joshua: “It is important to focus on relationship with Christ as the rationale for doing away with sin.” — Thanks for highlighting that point. It seems that relationship with Christ in this area is many times missed.
@Morgan and @Crystal: Thanks for the encouraging words!