I Didn't Do It

As we travel around I always enjoy finding out where people are from. Today our communities are filled with families from "somewhere else". The Local or the Transplant. These differences can be a source of contention based on your view. Families who have raised their children in the same location for generations may look with doubt at people that move into their neighborhood, considering them outsiders. On the other-hand a family moving into a new town may view the locals as backwards and unmotivated to change or experience different cultures. In either case both views are distorted and without merit. Brad Paisley newest album titled Wheelhouse has a new song called Southern Comfort Zone; in my opinion I think this should be the anthem of every church. One of my favorite lines from the song is; “…I can see the ways that I’ve grown, I can’t see this world unless I go, outside my Southern Comfort Zone.”

These are challenging economic times and many families have to do whatever it takes to make it and pay their bills. Do you ever feel uncertain about people you know at work or associate with because of their position, lifestyle or religion? We put up our guard when we don’t understand something or if someone is much different from what we know as “normal”. Family can be difficult to deal with at times but they are “family” and you love them anyway.

Gods love for us goes beyond race, gender, family ties and even personalities. Recently I was listening to a speaker talk about the book of Jude in the New Testament. The writer of the book of Jude begins by saying, “I wanted to express my excitement on our common faith and salvation”, but instead he changes gears and goes on to say, “I must challenge you to fight for the faith that gives us eternal life.” That’s my take on it. One thing is for sure we are all unique people with different personalities and attitudes. Near the end of Jude our writer encourages the people of to stand in the faith of Christ, don’t get caught up in the distractions of the world, show this kindness even to people who doubt Gods word.

We are all sinners. The one thing that will separate us from God is our own stubbornness. The God that made the heavens, the earth, you and me, isn’t just for those who go to church on Sunday; sometimes they are the ones who mess things up. He wants the best for you. God loves each and every one of us and wants you and me to have a relationship with Him. Gods’ son, Jesus Christ, came to bridge the gap between a holy God and us here on earth.

Have you ever been blamed for something you didn’t do? You will do everything it takes to prove your innocence. With Christ at the center of our lives we stand blameless in Gods sight. That relationship simply requires that we take our agenda and replace it with Gods plan for our life. We can’t get to God any other way, being a nice guy won’t do it, not by helping other people; or trying to save the planet, none of those good deeds will get us any closer to heaven. Simply believe Jesus Christ is Gods son. Ask Christ into your life right now by admitting you are a sinner, next ask Christ to take up first place in your life and let him lead your desires and motives.

 I know it ain’t easy to change but if you will get around other men and women like you that love God, they can encourage you in a way that makes sense and in a way you can understand. You will begin to see your life in a whole new light. God wants to know you, just as you are, invite Him in, you will enjoy the company.