Year End Thoughts

I guess it is long overdue, but thought I would get one last blog in before we see 2008.

I have been reading Phillip Yancey's Disappointment With God (a must read, by the way) and it has really got me thinking. I have been very convicted of how my actions portray God. I have passing thoughts of this at times, but never have I been so convicted. Nietsche once wrote of Jesus, "His followers will have to start looking more saved before I start following their Savior." If that isn't an indictment, I don't know what is. God assigned us the task of being His ambassadors and we are failing more often than not. I AM FAILING MORE OFTEN THAN I WOULD LIKE! Each day, I have been asking myself how what I do today has impacted people's perception of God. I hope I continue the trend because it is a hard question to answer and one that has challenged me personally.

Yancey writes, "The watching world judges God by those who carry His name. A large measure of disappointment with God stems from disillusionment with Christians." Lord, please don't let me be the cause for someone seeing you in a poor light! I know Paul was speaking in the context of food laws in 1 Corinthians 10, but perhaps he had a broader intent when he wrote that we should not cause another to stumble by what we do. God dwelling in us gives us both a personal connection and a great responsibility. Living up to His name is a great challenge and a great privilege.

I hope that 2008 is a year that marks a huge improvement in the way all Christians represent God...especially me.

Have a great New Year!