you know what i really like? People who are real with you.
I think too many christians cultivate an image of who they think they should be, then they fake it to everyone. I’ve done that before, but it only leads to loneliness and hypocrisy.
However, it’s such a beautiful experience when someone shares their hurts and frustrations, and they realize that they are not alone. Yet, there are people right now who feel alone, who feel no one understands, and who feel like they are not acceptable to God. I know, because I was one of them, but there were some people in my life that reached out and showed me love, and let me tell you, love changes everything.
I know in some churches it is down right hard to be real, because often times, the atmosphere doesn’t cultivate openness. There is a real risk of being rejected by legalistic jerks.
Yet, the church should be the one place someone is safe to share their struggles. You know why, because spiritual growth is not primarily an individual effort, rather it is grown within community. As Romans 12:1b says, “present your bodies [plural] as a living sacrifice [singular], holy and acceptable to God, which is you spiritual worship.” The church is made up of many people, but we are to be one living sacrifice to God.
Lord, I pray that we can learn to be real and not fake. I pray that we walk in grace and forgiveness with one another. And I pray for those with hurts deep within, that your love will ease internal warfare and bring a peace beyond understanding.
Amen.
-js.
July 18th, 2011 at 5:32 pm
Thanks for sharing this Joe. I have definitely felt alone because of my past a million times and haven’t shared because of fear of being rejected. I also know what it is like to be around legalistic people and it is really annoying. I hope you come across more people who you can be open with and will reach out to you.