Why am I still a Christian?
After so many disappointments, atrocities and failures with the painful questions that they bring. Why?
Bottom line: because I need to be!
Because I would frankly be scared to try and live these days without help from beyond myself. Even if the only prayer I manage to articulate at times is ‘Dear Lord, please help’, I will not stop calling on God for strength, guidance and inspiration.
Does that sound a bit sad?
Not half as sad and dangerous as the alternative.
OK so I too wonder why God does/allows some things. I admit some religious people are pretty horrible and some secular folk are just lovely. I often wish the church were better than we are in so many ways.
But in choosing to believe evolutionary theory over creation the world not only defies common sense but rejects absolutes and establishes survival of the fittest with its resulting culture of rape, abuse, slavery and murder. I want no part of such a culture.
I still believe intelligent design is the most rational explanation for what we can observe and measure, and that reverence is the more positive, healthy and safe life choice. I can celebrate the beauty with thankfulness to the One Who rejoices to create it.
In choosing to worship image over reality and gift over Giver the world sells its soul in a greedy, self-deceiving scramble for power, popularity and stuff that won’t last.
I’m as tempted by it all as the next person but knowing the frustration of dissatisfaction I want to be content with less. Deep in my soul I hunger to be happy simply in knowing I am loved, forgiven and can be of some service to my Master and to others. Such are the seeds of practising righteousness. I catch a glimpse sometimes, a brief taste and know this is the path worth pursuing.
In replacing the real, Heaven-sent Saviour with man-made ‘superheroes’, the world idolises itself, proudly burning its boats and bridges regarding salvation.
I’m a woeful disciple at best but I refuse to reject my Lord and inspiration Jesus Christ, the King of Kings Who humbled Himself to death that I might live.
Live then I shall, in His service, by His grace!
The Apostle Paul testified thus, ‘I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…’ (Philippians 3 v 8)
Or again, ‘Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners – of whom I am the worst.’ (1 Timothy 2 v 15)
Paul’s words are echoed in this 21st century quote, ‘I am a sinner, but I trust in the infinite mercy and patience of our Lord Jesus Christ.’ (Pope Francis)
It all comes down to Jesus.
As another believer put it around 500 years ago:
‘Here I stand, I can do no other. So help me God!’ (Martin Luther)
Here we stand, on solid ground, thanks be to God!
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