I have been thinking a lot today, about the talks I’ve had on Christmas eve with the atheist and the confused Christian. And also, the things that I wrote to them about. I’m afraid, it’s not productive for me (and, for anyone else, for that matter) to bring up a topic like this. Sometimes, the subject can painfully go around in circles. If there is no resolution to a discussion, I think, it’s worthless to even start.
 
But, I do have a thought that I would like to bring up; at least, this one time. And, I promise to revert back to my silly self, after this post. I seem to like me more that way, anyway . Less chances of getting a heart attack, I guess. 🙂

The one I didn’t speak of on my previous post was the churchgoer. I did say “churchgoers” on there, didn’t I? I apologize. I meant, I spoke with one person only, even though there were a few others, who were simply eavesdropping.

There’s really not much to say about this guy, though; except that when speaking of “the lost,” his overt religiosity seems to rear its ugly head out of nowhere. I won’t go into details. But, it sure made me think of how, sometimes, we as Christians, can be ineffective or even detrimental at times, in our purpose, due to the amount of knowledge we have about our faith. Sometimes, the best situation is to know little, and simply have a child-like sincerity. I used to go by the saying, sincerity does not equal truth. This may not be as accurate as I thought it was, now; but, speaking from experience, it does help to lead you there, somehow.

I hate Bible bashing. I really do. And, you can easily do it without even realizing it. I want to share my faith. I do believe it’s my responsibility. And my joy, as a Christian. But I believe also, that there is a way to do it, without making truth seekers feel like they’re being seen as somewhat, incomplete or terrible. They’re not. This is a very sensitive matter, indeed. That is why I’d rather not be a “teacher.” I believe, teachers have an enormous responsibility. The biggest one of which is, to be above reproach, I think. And, this cannot be taken with a grain of salt. I would rather be the lifelong student who stumbles frequently, but shuts his mouth and absorbs everything he’s fed with. I don’t mind. I have a tough system and can digest pretty much anything. I simply vomit whatever makes me sick. 🙂

The point I’m trying to make here is that, Christians are often the ones who set hurdles for those who could barely take a step. This is unfortunate. A lot of times, we get way ahead of ourselves, to our shame. We feed tough meat to those who could only chew soft vegetables at the moment. We attempt to teach Calculus to first graders. I am just as guilty as the next guy. Sometimes, the way to see your own shortcomings is to experience them in other people first. Sad but true.

I’m learning that if there’s a single lesson worth teaching about, it’s our own example. Our successes and failures (as my friend, Mike, has pointed out). And if there’s anything we can freely and proudly show off, it should be our ability to relate to those not in the know. I believe that teaching from the pulpit is not nearly as effective as teaching from the pew. The back pew, in fact. We can’t even expect to meet people halfway. I think, it’s just as unfair. We have to go wherever they are and meet them there. Start at their level and be sensitive. I believe, this act of vulnerability and humility is how we show that we truly care. Because human beings need relationships more than they need anything else in this life. And, that’s a truth no one can deny.

I’m sorry, I can’t write anymore. This is killing me.