A Better Reflection of Christ

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:22, 23 NKJV)

I'm sure most of you have heard of the tragic and senseless shooting at the Wisconsin Sikh temple on Sunday. I knew nothing of this religion, so I looked it up. They sound like pretty peaceful people.  As a matter of fact, all of the neighbors who were interviewed described them using words like: Peaceful. Loving. Charitable. Serene. Beautiful. Helpful.  People said they didn't know a lot about the religion but if it was like the people who belonged to it, it was a beautiful religion.

It made me wonder how Christianity looks to those who "don't know much about that religion."  Sad to say, especially with recent issues, not too good.  And we've been hearing it for a long time too:  "Christians are judgmental, hypocritical and self-righteous."  It makes me sad.  Because I know Jesus wasn't judgmental, hypocritical and self-righteous and we are called to be like Jesus.  Shouldn't we have more of those qualities attributed to the Sikh?... Peaceful, loving, charitable, helpful?  Shouldn't people look at Christians and think, "I want to be more like that?"

EVERY Christian is responsible for what Christianity looks like to others.  What can I change in my daily life to let others see what Jesus is really like?  What ever happened to asking ourselves the question, "What would Jesus do?"  I just don't think Jesus would have attended EITHER of the Chic' Filet days and I don't think he would have picked a side.  He would have had something very profound and loving and inclusive to say that would have shut EVERYONE up.

Sometimes I wonder if the reason Jesus hasn't yet come back for his Bride is because he doesn't recognize her.

Lord Jesus,
I pray for our brothers and sisters in Wisconsin who are grieving the loss of loved ones in yet another senseless act of violence and hate.  I pray, Lord, that those of us who represent you will begin to do a much better job.  Help me to be your hands, feet and lips, and let me be an honest reflection of who you are.  Amen.

Joys:  Only a few more weeks before Richard comes home; only a few more weeks before Emma's birth; an interview for Kevin tomorrow.