July 23, 2012:  Passive Christianity?

I listen to a lot of Christian music on the radio.  It helps keep me upbeat, positive and a little more focused on God.  There’s a song that’s been on the airwaves for awhile that has a catchy refrain but the more I think about it, the more I think it’s missing the point of being a Christian.  Here are the words to the refrain.  (I believe the group is Building 429, but can’t remember the name of the song.  My apologies to the band if I’ve mistaken them for another group.)

 

            “All I know is I’m not home yet

            This is not where I belong

            Take this world and give me Jesus

            I am not where I belong.”

While I like the idea that they’re choosing Jesus over the world, the rest of the words make me think of someone who’s retreated from the world and is only waiting to die or for Christ’s return.  What happened to Matthew 5:14-16?  “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.  Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”  And what about the “Great Commission” found in Matthew 28:18-20?  “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.  Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe the things I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’  Amen.”

There’s nothing in either of those statements that can be interpreted as, “Sit tight, chill.  Don't do anything.  I gotta go up to heaven for a little while, but I’ll be back for you shortly.”  Although I do have to say that I can understand where they’re coming from!  When I consider the world around me, there’s a strong urge to grab my lampshade and hide out until I hear that trumpet sound!  But, I believe in a God of purpose.  I believe in a God who sees the end from the beginning and who prepared the plan for mankind’s salvation before He ever created the world.  I believe in a God who has given me skills and abilities to fulfill His plan for my life.  And I believe He has a plan for everyone.  Even you!

I also believe that it is precisely at times like these when Christians everywhere need to rise up and show the world the tangible Love of Christ that lives in us!  So how about if we throw off the rags and the cares of this life and reveal the Peace and the Hope that we have in Christ to a world hungry for the real thing!