Man does not live by bread alone…
This is not a sales pitch. I have nothing to sell. It is not a debate, though I’m happy to engage in one if you like. This is not a catastrophic existential crisis, and there is no altar call at the bottom of the page. This is my opportunity to tell you what faith means to me and why it is important enough to make the front page of my website.
Life can be hard. There are job losses, global pandemics, earthquakes, and deaths. Nevertheless, I have a deep sense of peace even when circumstances might indicate otherwise. Why.? Because I believe there is a God and he loves me. Why do I have a sense of direction even when I really don’t know where I’m going? (No wise cracks here about asking for directions!). Because Jesus Christ has provided clear principles for living life that provide the basis for making decisions. Those principles are found in the Bible and things simply work better when we follow the guidance we find there.
Do I do it right all the time? Not a chance. Unfortunately, many people calling themselves Christians lean toward dispensing justice when they should be showing mercy. Just as many show so much mercy they fail to establish the consequences for actions that brings about justice. Not an easy balance to get right and I struggle with it as a dad, as an elected official, even as a soccer referee (when I used to do that more often).
Nevertheless, I’m grateful. I’m grateful that I serve a God who does not need my service, but welcomes me as an adopted son. I’m grateful that unlike many other religions he will never force himself on anyone, and I believe anyone who tries to force God on others has made a grave mistake. I’m grateful that God has given me, and you, the freedom to choose the path you will take with your life and to decide whether you will believe in him or not. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
So I think we should pray more and fight less, and we will all be better off if we do.