Did e'er such love and sorrow meet as when Jesus said: "Oh, Jerusalem, if only you knew the things that make for peace."
B. Unabashed Christian
Holy One,
I bow in awe and reverence at what you bring about in the universe.
But I do not fear you.
I extend my thanks to you every day for your guidance, blessing and love that enrich my life beyond measure.
Why should I fear you?
If I devalue the diversity of life, if I deny the invitation to love, if I squeeze your gifts so tightly that tey cannot be shared, if I presume to possess your garden Earth and deface its beauty,
Then I fear - not your, but the consequence of my contempt: exile.
Amen
C. Unquoting Jesus:
"I said 'narrow door,' Peter, not a narrow mind!" [He didn't say it, but...]
D. Blog/Rant: Responding to the Evangelist at Your Door (Part 2)
The unwelcome evangelist at your door insists on asking his “most important question: Are you 100% certain you’re going to heaven?”
How to respond to such a loaded and manipulative question? A little preparation might help, such as noting how Jesus usually turned such queries back on His questioners. With a little practice, and the following potential replies, you’ll be equipped with something better than “that’s none of your damn business, young man.”
“Brother, I don’t think Jesus ever said that’s an important question.”
“I have no doubts about God’s love for me. Do you?”
“I think the point is discipleship, not getting into heaven. Living for Him, not for our personal benefit.”
“That question might feed your sheep, but I’m 100% sure it doesn’t feed Jesus’ sheep.”
“Don’t be too sure of yourself – unless you love your enemies, turn the other cheek, and are prepared to give all you have to the poor.”
“Do you enjoy trying to make people uncomfortable? It won’t work with me.”
“Where can I get the gall it takes to ask that question of a total stranger who just told me he’s a member of another church?”
“Who called you to be a sower of doubt rather than of faith in God’s love and mercy?”
“God works in mysterious ways, but I’m 100% sure even you are going to heaven.”
“Can you walk on water, too? Then don’t imply you can provide 100% certainty.”
“I’ve learned that Pharisee-ism takes many forms – that question being one of them.”
“Taking that question seriously is akin to debating the number of angels who can fit on my head. It’s pointless.”
“No. But I am 100% sure heaven is nothing like what we imagine. When the roll is called, I’ll be there.”
“Oh, I wouldn’t worry myself about that, young man.”
“If I were 100% certain, why go on living? Why not take the leap of faith a la Jim Jones?”
“Which heaven are you talking about? The one with streets of gold and pearly gates? The one with 72 virgins for every foolish/fanatical young man? The one where we disappear into union with Divinity? It’s all useless speculation.”
“Sure. I hope to see you there.”
“My family, friends, and at least 50% of my congregation think I am going to heaven. That’s good enough for me.”
“100%? You mean like those Millerites who were 100% sure the world would end in 1843? God will provide.”
“I like my chances.”
“Oh yes. And I’ll be praying for you.”
“When we spoke this morning, God didn’t mention anything to make me doubt it.”
“God only knows. But I trust her.”
“Don’t worry. Be happy. Life is good. God is good. God is fair.”
“The only thing I or anyone can be 100% certain of is physical death.”
“According to the latest Jesus Poll, 83.6% of respondents say I’m good to go. How are your numbers?”
“Every time I hear that question, I wonder what happened to preaching the good news of the community of faith on Earth, of peace on Earth, good will to all.”
“Wow! The last time I heard that question was in college. Fortunately, I graduated.”
“Hah! Hah! Good one. Tell Mom it won’t work, though. I won’t be at the Wednesday night prayer meeting.”
“Well done, good and faithful servant. You have your reward. Peace to you.”
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