Categories: uncategorized
Date: 20 February 2005 15:43:59
I really should be working, having made it back from church via a cup of tea in one house and lunch in another, but I just wanted to share this before the thought leaves me.
(One of) the readings this morning was from John 3, including verse 16 which everyone knows, but also continuing to verse 17, which to me always has to follow;
16 'For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish bu have eternal life.
17 'Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him'
It bothers me when people fixate on the differences between individuals, churches and even religions, without realising or acknowledging the love of God which was so great that He gave his son. This morning it was pointed out that we should be concentrating on being the life and light of the church in the world, rather than on trying to change people into what we assume to be correct. If Jesus did not come to condemn, what right do we have to?
This brings me back to an eternal struggle of mine, of trying to live my faith in the world. In the baptism service we give a candle with the words 'Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.' To achieve this, that by your words and actions people will know that Christ lives in you, and will come to know him themselves, has to be the greatest achivement. Perhaps because what helped me wasn't being asked to 'pray a prayer' with someone, but just by living with, worshipping with and talking to other Christians, I always hope to be able to do the same.