I have been seeing SOOOOO much war between christians. I was always aware of the battle between denominations; between protestants and catholics; between individuals. But I have found that these wars are not isolated within the walls of religion. I have found that it's just as ugly outside of the IC as it is inside.
I have raged and openly expressed my beliefs. I have been one who has attacked other views on religion. I've attacked the IC. I've attacked other belief systems that are different than my own. But recently, I have watched in disgust as I've seen people tearing each other down. My opinions have changed about who's right or wrong. I think we've ALL got it wrong. We're so busy dissecting theology that we ignore the command to love. We get so caught up in our differences that we don't embrace what we have in common. When are believers going to stop attacking their own army?
I have had the privilege of spending time with some Catholic friends recently. Once upon a time I would have attacked Catholics mercilessly. But I have been reminded that when it all comes down to the nitty gritty, we agree on the basics. That's what we need to focus on. We need to embrace that we agree on salvation. We need to embrace that we (i'm speaking of true believers, not those who go through the motions) all love God, no matter how we express it. I still dislike religion. It's not for me. But I understand that for some people, the structure and discipline works for them. I have to accept that I am not God. God has called me out of the IC, but there are some He has left in the IC. Does that make me any more righteous, any more right than they? Absolutely not! This has been a lesson that has been a long time coming. We need to embrace our common beliefs and stop attacking one another. I now understand why my Catholic friends believe what they do. It makes sense to me and it's nothing like what I was taught. We actually agree on a lot more than I thought was possible. Does that mean i agree 100%? No, but I respect their beliefs. I respect their right to practice those beliefs in the way they feel God is leading them.
Look, ma, I'm growing up! HA
This is true and an informative reminder. Put down the weapons and start sharing the love of Jesus. I went to a party on Saturday and was riddled with questions about my view of the organic church and things like monergism. I refused to argue and kept a cool head. My evening was better spent just enjoying the fellowship of the believers I was with we had sooooo many things in common, because we celebrated Jesus. I think that when it comes down to who is fleeing from the agendas of the day in our country it is good to know that there are believers that are out there who LOVE JESUS and care for you too. good post Sista!
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