I came to a realization a while back - I love Jesus. I do. If He was real and the tales of the Bible are even a little bit close to being right, He was an amazing man and the world would be a better place if we all tried to be a little more like Him. It hurts my heart that the ones who claim to love Him the most...they don't seem to be reading the same book. Their Jesus encourages them to shun those who are different - their Jesus doesn't say go and live among them and be their friends and help them, no, their Jesus says keep to yourself and don't expose your children to them and shun any who don't believe as you do.
My Jesus, the one I love, he's all "Hey guys! We're having a party! Bob, bring your boyfriend and the beer! Susie, if you must smoke the meth this time, you're going to have to do it outside, and when you pick your scabs, put them in this bowl here and I'll throw them out - no need to flick them across the room. Johnny, I haven't seen you in years, how the heck have you been? Still trying to decide if I'm real? Tammy, I heard about your abortion - I'm so sorry for your loss. I'll be over tomorrow with a casserole and some cleaning supplies; I imagine you've probably been a little down lately and could use some help."
My Jesus, when he sees homeless bums on the street corner or standing in front of the gas station - He rolls down his window and fishes out the last couple of ones He's got on him to give to the guy. He certainly doesn't avoid eye contact and turn up the stereo.
My Jesus wants gay people to get married because marriage is a celebration of love and the world needs as much love as it can get. My Jesus loves love.
My Jesus doesn't care if you wear flip flops and jeans to church - He rejoices that you showed up. And my Jesus isn't so much concerned with how often you do show up - He worries more that you're remembering His examples every day.
I'm not a Christian. I don't claim any religion. I know what my Granny taught me about Jesus. I know what the Bible says. I know what feels right in my heart.
Yep. That's my Jesus, too. I'm glad you know the one I know: forgiving, accepting, 100% pure love.
ReplyDeleteI refuse to believe that a God who would give us children (innocent souls who thrive on love and happiness) would ever treat ANYONE like crap...the way a lot of "Christians" do. :)
I like it when people say what I'm thinking, too. And I mostly have your same opinion. He was/is an awesome guy and deserves the best love, respect and adoration we can give him. He wants me to be the best, happiest me and wants you to be the best, happiest you.
ReplyDeleteSomeone with love, tolerance and acceptance like that should never be forgotten!
I like your words, friend. Except "scabs"; I really dislike that word.
ReplyDeleteGirl, get out of my head! This is my Jesus, too. Especially the part about love. We need ALL the love we can get is absolutely right. You're brilliant.
ReplyDeleteI'm with Gandhi on this one:
ReplyDelete"I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ."
I like your Jesus!
ReplyDeleteWe've had plenty of conversations about Christianity and what I keep trying to tell you is if you try to be like your Jesus (mine too), then you are Christian. It has nothing to do with your church affiliation.
ReplyDeleteAMEN!!
ReplyDeleteI like everything except the beer. That stuff STINKS!!!
ReplyDelete