As I was at WinterJam I cannot even remember the exact point. But the theme of Redemption kept coming up in my heart and mind. Tony Nolan spoke about Redemption and how God loves us no matter what. I was reminded how redeemed we are, then the prodigal son came into play. How even though he left when he came back he received forgiveness and redemption. It made me think as Christians do we welcome the drunks, addicts, the modern day Rehabs (those who sleep around) homosexuals, abusers whatever they may, the ones who are in a place that we have likely been at least some point in our lives. Maybe not as bad or deep but still dabbled in. Why is it the ones who need the church the most are scared to come to church?!? Because of judgement or their vision of God is blurred by us most of the time. Most atheists that I have met are ones because the church has hurt or ruined them for some reason or another. It does not matter what your sin is the gift of redemption does not change because of the sin you have committed because if it has most of the church should not receive Grace, Mercy, or Redemption. Let's be a little less harsh and judging and more loving. You received redemption also. As a Christian I do not have all the answers but I will help you to the best of my abilities. I am not trying to shove my faith down your throat but you are missing out on the redemption and love. You are searching everywhere and anywhere to fill up a void. I do not know your story and why you are or are not a believer. What either made or broken your faith. Who turned on you or helped you. I do not know but I do know that it can be redeemed and the redemption is waiting for you.
Kersten, What's up chick. I dig reading your blog. You have some wonderful things to say. I have witnessed both sides of church. i have seen churches that were really good at loving people and helping them out of old life habits, addictions, and other trials in life. I have also seen other churches go completely opposite. Noses up, better then others, types of churches. Honestly, I have seen the loving churches far more often then the snob churches. I guess you would have to explain your position on judgement. What is judgement in your eyes?
You're right more often than not I see loving churches, just generalization because I have no idea who read it you know. And it may not be judgement necessarily but I know some have a harder time opening to others who are different. It is probably how I should of put it
Different, scares a lot of people. I think human natures problem is we take one's opinion in a church and believe it to be true for all those in the church. That's why I think it is an awesome idea to identify your welcome leaders. Those that are excited to see new people at church. Once we find those excited people, let's use them in their gifting give them responsibility to greet and engage with those that come into the church that are new both to our church and those that are simply new to the idea of church. There are so many available ministries within a local church that we seem to not acknowledge. Sorry, going off subject a little bit. Again, keep up the blog I truly enjoy reading your thoughts on subjects. Love you.
Kersten, What's up chick. I dig reading your blog. You have some wonderful things to say. I have witnessed both sides of church. i have seen churches that were really good at loving people and helping them out of old life habits, addictions, and other trials in life. I have also seen other churches go completely opposite. Noses up, better then others, types of churches. Honestly, I have seen the loving churches far more often then the snob churches. I guess you would have to explain your position on judgement. What is judgement in your eyes?
ReplyDeleteGive me an example that you have personally witnessed in the last 6 weeks.
DeleteYou're right more often than not I see loving churches, just generalization because I have no idea who read it you know. And it may not be judgement necessarily but I know some have a harder time opening to others who are different. It is probably how I should of put it
DeleteDifferent, scares a lot of people. I think human natures problem is we take one's opinion in a church and believe it to be true for all those in the church. That's why I think it is an awesome idea to identify your welcome leaders. Those that are excited to see new people at church. Once we find those excited people, let's use them in their gifting give them responsibility to greet and engage with those that come into the church that are new both to our church and those that are simply new to the idea of church. There are so many available ministries within a local church that we seem to not acknowledge. Sorry, going off subject a little bit. Again, keep up the blog I truly enjoy reading your thoughts on subjects. Love you.
DeleteThank you! Love you too.
ReplyDelete