"And they'll know we are Christians by our love..."

Last week I finally realized that my children have no regard for the clothes that they have.  They do not appreciate the fact that there is usually clean laundry always at their disposal.  I stopped doing their laundry last Thursday.  I told them they (the older 3-4) were responsible for their stuff.  I don't think they believed me.

Yesterday after supper, I called them down and had them empty the laundry room.  It was so stuffed with clothes, you could barely open the door.  I think they were a little overwhelmed at the mound that piled there.  I had them sort through for their clothes.  I told them that there lays all their stuff.  If they wanted it clean, then wash it.

I have to admit, it feels good.  I don't even feel bad.  As far as Max and the younger two, as long as it is in their bin, I'll wash it.  They have always been good about putting their clothes away.

Guess they are growing up.  If I want them to be responsible men, it  has to include laundry!    :)

I feel OK with the laundry that is my part because it isn't an unreasonable amount any more!    Yah, me!

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Zach asked me the other day, "How come some people don't think we are Christians?"

That question surprised me a bit.  I guess it was a judgement that  was made based on the fact that we were not going to church regularly.  I found it bothersome.  It has been on my mind a bit.  Part of my wants to react ugly and mouth off but I won't.  What is the point?  If someone is taught to judge Christianity based on church attendance... wow, won't heaven be an interesting place?

My fingers have had to pause.  I feel that age old anger surfacing.  I feel that deep frustration that people are just so ignorant.  

This weekend at the retreat, my girlfriend and I were talking about church, God and all that is in the middle.  I was telling her of my decision to go back to church with some commitment to attend regularly.  This was a decision based on my children's needs and desires.  It was a decision based on a nudge.  

I was then telling her about my dad's letter.  She asked if I got the letter after the decision to go back to church.  She saw it as maybe they were connected.  I told her I didn't.  I think that God understands my deepest hurts.  He knows me deepest fears.  He knows what I need.  I don't think that God would take the peace that came with the letter away, even if I chose not to go to church.  I don't think He is that kind of God.

As I listened that weekend to the conversations, so many revolved around church.  So much revolved on hurts and disappointments.  I really think that is because we expect too much.  Church is really a place to meet with others and worship God.  It really should be that simple, shouldn't it?

That is what I see it as.  That is why this last weekend felt so good and was church for me.  We shared, sang, prayed and connected.  


"And they'll know we are Christians by our love."

Christianity

Growing up I went to church every Saturday, church school all the way through university. My world revolved around Christians and I never had to live in the "outside world."

Over the years I have met non-christians but the majority of my circle has always been with people that share similiar beliefs as me.

Into my life has come a person who I have grown to love and appreciate... that isn't a professed christian. We have great discussions... she really makes me think of my faith and ask myself the hard questions that I have never really been asked.

Someone said to someone at our school.. " I really thought you would found the Lord before you left Rhema."

WHO SAYS THAT KIND OF THING? Is there a time line on "finding Christ?" It seems more of a judgement. That statement has left me baffled and upset. Being a Christian is a choice and about the relationship between two people... ultimately. In my experience people don't have to be professed christians to be TRUE christians.

God will do His thing in His time. It is all under control. I am not sure we are suppose to worry so much about converting people as much as sharing God's love, what He has done in our lives, and sharing through our actions. I believe that when people are wanting and ready... to accept God into their lives... God will bring about the right person to do that.

Converting someone seems like such a harsh word... that you are waiting for change to be made... it seems like a judgement. How can you hear about God's love and the story of redemption and NOT want to "convert?" Maybe some people's lives are fine. One of my friends said she never met more people that had been abused in some way or form than Christians. This statement made me realize that perhaps there is truth in it.

My kids know and love God. Is it because they are taught to? They don't need Him (at least not yet) the way I did growing up. They have parents they can turn to for all their needs.

Growing up, I never questioned God's existence. I NEEDED TO BELIEVE! I need someone to love me and fight the battles that my parents weren't. So I found the comment interesting. If you have a decent life ( and if you are and have been one of these people ... you are so blessed)... why would you need a Savior? Why would the story of God's love and salvation interest you ?
I have never met someone like this... so these questions have been stewing in my mind.

I also believe that God will make Himself known in His time. Not our time. Therefore putting a timeline on ones's conversion is highly presumptuous.

A real Christian is one that people don't have to ask if they are... their action and lifestyle speak loud and clear.

I am not in the business of converting. I wouldn't even know how to ... especially if you read my blog on the story of Cain and Abel! Help me!

I know that if I call myself a Christian then I need to step up to the plate and live my life as a witness of Christ and all He has done for me. I know that Christ will take care of the rest. I can't wait to see what God has planned. I am sure it is better than anything we can come up with!