An Introduction

Saturday June 12, 2021

Photo by John Cafazza on Unsplash

This is just a small introduction to explain a bit why it took me so long to get started with this blog. Though we are called to share the gospel, it may take some of us a bit of a kick in the pants to get the ball rollin’. God bless!

There was a time not too long ago when I was ashamed to be called a “Christian”. Not because of Christ, no, but because of the stigma, taint, and blood stains associated with the word itself – not to mention the hypocrisy that particular word is deeply steeped in.

Christians oftentimes think of themselves as—or treat others as though they are— “better” than the rest. I say if we’re Christian we are “worse” than the rest. Why? Because we “know” better.

• We know better, yet we judge others.

• We know better, yet we reject others.

• We know better, yet we point fingers.

We are called to accept and love everyone, sins and all, just as Jesus Himself did. Yet there's a faction of us who stand out on the street with their little signs screaming to God's children that they're all going to hell—as if that screamer hasn't themselves sinned. We are called to shine the light of Jesus and share His truth in Love, not shove it in peoples’ faces screaming Hell and Damnation. Let's stop pointing out the "splinter" in one person's eye and focus a bit more on getting the "plank" out of our own.

We need to “hate” the sin yet love the sinner. Welcome them, comfort them, be the “light” and walk with them, guiding them and helping them. Not judging them. We can learn from each other, helping each other. Because we are all “the sinner”.

As one Christian to another I offer a challenge: really pay attention to your attitudes and thoughts towards people who are “different” than you. God wants us to "love our neighbors". I sincerely doubt He meant just the ones "like" us.

No matter their "race", creed, gender identity, job, party affiliation, whatever; they are all—each and every one—human just like you, and loved by God, just like you. Not a one of us is "better" than another.

…

Another point I’d like to touch upon is the simple act of reading the Bible for yourself.

• Read it

• Study it

• Read the commentary in it

• Look up the words you’re not familiar with – many “bible” words are so overused and even misused.

I believe so many people for so many centuries have been led astray simply because they didn’t (or couldn’t) read the Bible for themselves; instead of putting their faith in The Word (the Bible), they put their faith or belief in ‘the word’ of their church leaders, peers and friends.

There have been denominations built upon the naivete and complacency of the people. Most people just don’t take the time to read the Bible – let’s face it, it’s not the easiest to follow. It’s just easier to take the leaders’ “guidance” for granted, not questioning, not digging deeper.

There are countless bible apps to tap into (BibleProject is fantastic! Best bible study companion I believe I’ve ever used and continue to use), and in as little as five minutes a day, you can get through the Bible. Whatever you do - do not start at the beginning. Ironically, the Bible is a book best begun in the middle 😅. I recommend starting with the Book of John or Luke. Continue on from there through Revelation, then circle around to Genesis.

Maybe have a drink with the Saints to get you going. By “drink” I mean whatever you fancy—it certainly does not have be alcoholic. I’m a hot tea and coffee drinker myself while getting my Bible Study on. 😉

…

Thanks for popping in. May God bless you on your journey!