Encouragement

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Since returning to writing, I've been trying to catch up on current events within the Christian circle. Unfortunately, many of the articles I've read deal with Christian hurting other Christians. The afflictions go beyond mere gossip and slander. Many recountings involve maiming and even death.

I too have been hurt and believe me, it really stinks.

Nevertheless, I've read where God has allowed Christians to go through the fire and floods. I could cite Paul's ministry. I could cite the lives of the heroes of Faith from the Bible. I've paid particular attention to outside commentary on suffering, i.e., Foxes' Book of Martyrs and historical accounts like Nero's reign of terror against Christians.

Somehow we in America have deluded ourselves to think that as Americans, we shouldn't suffer. Why? I don't know. Maybe it's the infiltration of the "prosperity" doctrine in churches today? Maybe it's something else?

We can debate this issue until the Lord returns. Thus far, I see the same discussions regurgitated day after day and the problem of Christian apathy still exists within the church.

So, what can we as a hurt and messy bunch can do? Let me suggest this: Instead of complaining how everyone has failed us, why don't we open a church building and show everyone just how "the big boys and girls do it"? The Bible does say in Proverbs that in order to have friends one must be a friend. So let's take the horrible experiences we have had and use them to the glory of God. Let's be a hands on example of how it should be according to the Word of God.

I know many people out there are excellent writers. In this day and age, publishing a book is not hard at all. Write a book and have it published. Detail what you've experienced and urge people to find church homes where the True Gospel of Jesus is preached AND lived.

These are but a couple of suggestions. I am sure some of us messy Christians can come up with some great ideas to turn the church around properly.

Why do I say this? I'm glad you asked. I read a book during my searches. It is called Messy Spirituality by Mike Yaconelli. Maybe you should read it before you give up on Jesus. It was eye opening for me and maybe it'll do the same for you.

I'm a messy Christian. I don't fit into the dogmatic mold some churches trap and bond their congregation with. I am not perfect. And when I look at the Bible, neither were the disciples. Remember Peter? Remember Paul? How about King David? Abraham? If you read their accounts in the Bible, they were not perfect at all. However, God used them.

God also uses bikers, ex-cons, former drug addicts and even prostitutes (Rahab) to reach the world and those in the church that think they are "perfect". Maybe God wants to use your imperfect messed up self? Would you allow God to use you?

Or are you content just complaining about how the church has mistreated you?

Maybe God is gearing you, oh messy one, to be a Peter or a Paul to the apathetic church at large? What better experience than first hand?

Before you totally check out on Jesus, think about it. You may be checking out on a beautiful future.


Johnny Rivera (c) 2009

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