More and more I find myself wanting to remove myself from social media. There was a time when I would enjoy a good debate. Sometimes, opinions would change from seeing things from another perspective, sometimes they wouldn’t, but regardless we would part amicably. Unfortunately those days are sadly gone. The level of intolerance (usually being exhibited by those complaining most about the intolerance of others) and animosity that people are unleashing on each other is nothing short of demoralizing. But the thing that bothers me the most is actually the thing that keeps me coming back. Too often you see people trying to use the Bible as an end all be all weapon to prove their point. Regardless of political or social beliefs people are able to Google a quote to “fit” their argument. Truthfully on some level part of me is happy that they are at least “reading” parts of the Bible. In the same manner that I leave chapter and verse notations in underground structures at work, it’s my hope that when these people read one it will inspire them to read more. To learn more. With that said even if you have the most righteous of intentions the Bible is not a weapon. It’s more of a hybrid mix of a survival manual for your soul, an instruction manual of our faith, and a compass to lead us back in the right direction of/when we wander. The words of the Bible are not there to divide, they are meant to show us the way. The truth. The life.
Throughout the Bible, in both the old and New Testament, we’re told not to change the word of God. Not to add to the word of God. Now what inspires me most to make this fight and stand my ground, whether it’s on social media or the street, is the book of Galatians. This particular book was written by Paul, who like you and I, never met Jesus while he was flesh and blood here on earth but still he was truly one of the most devote non the less. In these letters he wouldn’t hesitate for a moment to interject when he saw the word of God being misused or bent to satisfy a human need. He even had the fortitude to question Peter, the rock of the church.
In no way do I even dream of myself worthy to be in the same conversation as Peter, Paul, or any of the apostles for that matter, but don’t you think we should all want to be, that we should all aspire to be. I’ll leave you with two parting thoughts. First, the mission laid out for the Apostles and the early followers of Christ is the same as it is for us. To live as Christ did, while teaching others by our actions and the word. And remember that for those who don’t know about Christ, we are the only example they will get to “see” Him.
Be the light…
Faith like Water 