Friday; October 16

I think that one of the challenges of Christianity in the 21st Century is that we have “Americanized” it a bit.  Now, please bear with me for a bit before tuning me out.  What I mean by that is we have applied American principles to what we expect from religion.  To be successful, it is tempting to believe that we have to be the biggest.  We need to be politically powerful and socially viable.  We need to be the movement that everyone follows.  Now, while that does have some appeal, I am not sure that is the case today, nor has it ever been the focus of God.  In fact, Jesus noted, “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14).  We shouldn’t be surprised if we aren’t the powerhouse; that was never the intent.  Sure, when it comes to adherents, the more the merrier; but the road to salvation won’t appeal to everyone – or even the majority. 

Let’s be careful what we want out of religion.  We mustn’t be exclusive; but we shouldn’t get down when the world isn’t lined up to get inside our doors. 

Think About It!

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