Wishy-washy Christians

Our great sermon this morning touched on a semi-controversial topic in American Christianity in the 21st century: how do we share our faith while still being tolerant of people who may share different religious viewpoints? I do not have all the answers, but I do know that we are called to be unashamed in our faith. "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Rom 1:16a)."

Before church this morning, I read through the headlines and found this article. When the sermon started, I was just beside myself--these thoughts had been on my mind all morning, and God reinforced them to me through the sermon. (What's ironic is that I wanted to shout 'Amen', but since I'm uncomfortable doing that (maybe ashamed?), I stayed quiet!)

Let's just remember Jesus' words in Mark 8:38 "For whoever is ashamed of me and my words in this sinful generation, the Son of Man will be also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels."

Of Tragedy and Hope

At worship team practice last Thursday night I read an article from Chuck Colson called Death Where is thy Sting: The Virginia Tech Massacre.

I think that during times like these, we as the Body of Christ, need to show the greater population that we know the only way to find peace--the love, grace and mercy of God through Jesus. The Amish school shooting last October is a perfect example, in my opinion. That community pulled together, forgiving the shooter--which does not condone the act--and embraced the families of both the victims AND the shooter. That is love in all its facets and, I believe, Christianity at its core.

Glorious Resurrection!!!

What a wonderful thing it is to celebrate the glorious Resurrection of our Lord! I heard on the radio the other day that the calendars of the Eastern and Latin churches generally do not agree, but this year, Christians around the globe would be celebrating the Easter holiday at the same time. Does that just astound anyone else? To think that we lift our voices with others around this globe, as well as those who through the centuries have already gone to Glory, in praise of our Saviour--amazing!!

Let us remember, as well, that we are people of the Resurrection. Live your life like you believe that Jesus is ALIVE FOREVER, AMEN!