Observing Christianity

""even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor.

And yet I was shown mercy, because I acted ignorantly in unbelief;

and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant,

with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus."

1 Timothy 1:13,14 (New American Standard Version)

 

I was having a conversation yesterday with a young woman who is in the process of observing Christianity and Christians in a up-close-and-personal way.  She is receiving assistance from a Christian organization, but has not decided whether Christianity is right for her just yet.  Her background involves a great deal of tradition, wrapped up in idolatry.

 

As I listened to her stories, I reassured her that God is a gentleman, and will not force anyone to love him.  He is not threatened by people who want to observe him and make an informed decision about becoming part of his family.  God's mercy and grace are big and strong enough to cover and embrace all of mankind.  God works in many ways to draw people to his love and restoration.  Sometimes the things we are most ashamed of, the things that cause us pain and embarassment, are the very things God uses to draw us to his unconditional love, mercy, forgiveness and restoration.

 

The Apostle Paul was not exaggerating when he called himself the "foremost" or "chief" of sinners.  He had participated in the murder of St. Stephen, an evangelist with the respect of a modern-day Billy Graham.  (Acts 8:1-3) But, God's grace and mercy were big enough to call Paul (formerly Saul) to a new life of love:

 

"It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.  And yet for this reason I found mercy, in order that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience, as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life." 1 Timothy 1:15,16 (New American Standard Version)

--Posted by Mama O.