Looking back on our participation in the Reno AIDS Walk, one person said "Wow. We were really in enemy territory today." He was referring to the fact that there was a statistically high concerntration of homosexuals and homosexual rights groups supporting the AIDS walk. Something about that has sat at the back of my mind for a few days, and I just nailed it down.
The truth is that every time we set foot in the world, we are entering enemy territory. It is easy to think of the world as a safe, neutral place. But he was jarred out of this by realizing that we were standing side-by-side with people advocating a sinful lifestyle - all the more obvious because it's one that creates a lot of divisions in the church and in the world today.
But if we want to be the church - to represent Jesus in a world run by Satan's rules, scemes, and devices, then we will ALWAYS be in enemy territory, whether in a car wash, the AIDS walk, or at the laundromat. That is truth #1. But truth #2 is that we're also promised that the bastions of hell will not stand before Christ's church. We live to assault those strongholds, not with anger, WMDs or protests, but the same way Jesus did - love, forgiveness, and grace. To follow the Son of Man who came not to be served, but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
3 comments:
Good post! Reminds me of the St. Francis quote:
"Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words."
Thanks! It's interesting that you should mention that excellent quote, as it's one that the teaching pastor at our church in one post to try and explain our emphasis on "Servant Evangelism."
Or, at another time he has said that "in a world where people grow up being taught that NOTHING is free, that there's always a catch, how will anyone be able to understand the free gift of salvation that Christ offers?" So we go out to the world and demonstrate God's love.
I am proud of you Dave, and all of those from Corem Deo who walked. I wish I wasn't in the midst of moving so I could have gone too. It is very tough, but remember, it is not the people who are our enemies in this, it is the world, and the sin. Most of the people are just confused and have no other way to release what they are feeling inside. Not only are they fighting racism, fear, hatred and an awful disease, they are also fighting God's will. Could you imagine being in such a battle? I have enough problems with my own sinful battles. And I don't think they have ever come across a church that doesn't approve of their lifestyle, but will still march against and support those with the disease. Most churches would just turn their heads, or condem them outright. Continue to be the good soldier and love the sinner, hate the sin.
Post a Comment