Language Change

So often in life, I feel as though I'm writing in basic computer language again. Remember the "if...then" statements

If 3 > 300 Then ? "Good Job"

As Christian's what happens when we change our language from "if-then" to "because-therefore".

If God loves me, then I am forgiven to Because God loves me, therefore I am forgiven.

Framing our faith in positive words reflects the joy Paul reveals to us in his epistles. Saved by grace through faith. God is the main actor in our lives. The almighty acts first in love, and we respond.

Try to spend two weeks removing the word If from conversations. Because and When are two of my favorite substitutes. When I do my daily devotions, I feel at peace.

Secure Churches

After the death of Dr Tiller in Oklahoma, a swirl of questioning thoughts have been running through my brain.

• Why do people who are pro-life take a life?
  
• Why are some churches now encouraging members who are permitted to carry concealed weapons to bring their weapons into the worship space?

There was an article in the Chicago Tribune which argues that Christian Churches are soft targets and therefore easily attacked. You can read the full article here: Church Safety, 08 Jun 2009

I cringe at the use of fear to drive a product. Yes, we live in a dangerous world and we should take steps to ensure the safety of all. There are simple smart moves: background checks on those who work with young people and finances. However, safety is not something I can guarantee; because by being open and welcoming, we risk letting dangerous people into our lives. Training ushers to look people over the way I had to as security for a state park is not welcoming and inviting people to worship God. This is why I smiled as read one response to the article.

Tony from Mishawaka, IN wrote

Do we attend church to worship? Or do we attend church to be safe? The early church had no illusions of "security." Many Christians around the world cannot count on being "safe" in worship spaces. I don't want ushers armed with guns in my church, just because a few "loose screws" view us as "soft targets!"

We are people of faith, who pray first, trust the resurrection promise, and go about living daily life in a way that brings glory to God. This means taking chances as we trust God to provide and protect.