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Topic: Resolutions (12/29/03)
TITLE: Religion Relationship or Relationship with Jesus Christ By David Ritchie 01/03/04 |
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As Ian walked from home to work he was still pondering the new turn his life had taken. The noise of running feet behind him caused him to look round as his friend Pete caught up with him.
"Well how is the new resolution going after the weekend,” said Pete catching his breath? Resolutions, you're always making resolutions, and they never last. This one will soon be broken too. I'll give you a week then you'll be back with the lads," he continued not giving Ian the opportunity to answer.
Ian smiled but said nothing. He even found himself pondering why he was so unperturbed at Pete's remarks. He felt so different; somehow he did not feel that he needed to answer, this was not at all like him.
"You won't last a week, just wait until the lads go out next Saturday night, you'll be there, you will never be able to miss this party." Pete was not going to let go.
Ian seemed to sense Pete's growing aggravation, "Just let's wait and see Pete, this is all so new to me, all I can say right now is that this is no resolution, something has happened to me that I cannot explain. I feel so different inside, for the first time in years I feel at peace with myself."
"Religion is for women and older people Ian you have so much to live for, we need you, you’re one of us. You will never fit in at that little church."
"It's not religion, I have not a clue about religion, all I know is that before I went to the service, I was like you, in fact I was worse than you. I made a fool of the guy who asked me, and only agreed to go with him as a joke. But that night I saw myself as I really was, in fact some times I thought someone had told the preacher about me. I had no intention of getting saved, but somehow I just knew I had to respond, it was as if God was speaking directly to me."
"Saved? That's no for you Ian, I have met folk like that before, they're no better than you and me, in fact I would not do some of the things they do. You belong with us and we all stick together. What's this saved thing anyway?"
"It's all so new to me, only a few days, but as I said I already feel different inside. One man said to me, "You have not got religion, nor have you made a new resolution, what you have received is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and the joy that goes with it. Actually that seems to sum it up pretty well, really Pete you should try it, come with me at the weekend and see for yourself."
"Now you really do sound like them, but religion is not for me Ian I really enjoy life. Sure I'll make a few resolutions this New Year, but nothing as radical as you."
"A few days ago I would have said the same thing Pete but even although I have so much to learn, I already feel and see things differently."
"At the time we spoke to the guy who invited us, he said it had nothing to do with feelings."
"That's true and some folk don't feel any different, they accept God in their lives by faith. But I do feel different, I even feel myself beginning to even think different, that's how it is with me. But listen Pete, I used to hate people preaching at me, and I feel I am beginning to preach to you, let's leave it there for now, but watch this space."
"Well I have to admit, for now, things are changing, I have never known you to back off before, but I tell you it won't last Ian you will miss the nights out with the boys."
"As I said Pete, watch this space, I intend living life to the full, but somehow I know it will be different from what I have experienced up to now. In fact as I consider it, you are right I have made a resolution, it is to an absolute resolution to follow Jesus Christ, wherever that leads."