Franciscan on Sister Water

Many people say they are Christians, but do they really know what it is to be a Christian?   When reading the New Testament one can follow the story of Christ’s travels throughout the Jordan and hear his words and the results of his actions.  He was revolutionary for the times and this resulted in his struggles with the locals and the authorities.   What I find important, when saying one is a Christian, is following the example of Christ.  It’s more of a proof of belief to follow his example than just to say one believes in Christ.  Belief is not enough, as they say, actions speak louder than words.

I notice many people who call themselves Christians tend to focus on words from the Old Testament.  The era of the Old Testament was the time of God’s promise.  The New Testament reveals the time of the fulfillment (Luke 17:16).  And it is said that much of the Old Law will pass away.  I would think that people who call themselves Christians would be more interested in following the words and examples of Christ.  Christ warned his disciples about condemning others.  He said ,”Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters” (Luke 11:23).  However, he warned Peter not to condemn those who followed Christ’s example, even though they were not connected with the disciples.  All need to remember this.  There are many Christian acts by persons who do not claim to be Christians.

Christ talked about judging others when he said, ” Stop judging…remember your own faults (splinters)” (Mathew 7:1-5)  He taught examples of conduct when he said, “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you” (The Golden Rule), which is not just for Christians.  Treating all with mercy as the parable of the Good Samaritan.  Another parable told of a Pharisee and a Tax Collector who approached God with different attitudes, showing us the humble way to approach God.  There are many examples of good conduct that all people could use in their daily lives and would make life better for all they come in contact with.

In Mathew 19:12, Christ talks about marriage between a man and a woman, he also talked about how some will not marry, because they were born so, made so by others and some renounce marriage for other reasons.  He recommends that we accept these facts.  So be it.  Christians should stop condemning  others for what they do not understand.  Jesus was ridiculed because he sat with the sinners and did not condemn them, why do so called Christians condemn those who are different from them?  I think they should return to the New Testament and follow Christ’s example and not practice self righteousness like the Pharisees (extolling their own false pride).

The parable of the sower (Luke 8:11-15), reminds us to listen to the word of God and embrace it with a generous and good heart.  This I wish for you all.