Within the church we have made a reflection of the world. There’s the cool crowd and “it” circle that only wants to associate with certain people which reveals a heart of haughtiness. If this is you, then repent. When you realize God’s love for you, then you want to pour out that love upon others.
A loving heart seeks out those who need love. A loving heart is bold. It doesn’t make excuses on why it can’t love. If you ask for it God is going to put people in your life who need your love. It’s time for a change. Allow the love of God to change you and compel you to make sacrifices.
Quote from Bible Reasons
This quote should apply to all areas of a true Christian's life, anywhere and everywhere.
-Robert Stock 
The view sipping my iced tea behind the drive thru in my beloved smalltown.
Just some shots from around here at My Forest Cathedral
Meditating on this Holy Season...
Signing off from My Forest Cathedral.... ~Amelia
16 comments:
Wise words!
Sadly, I find that the church can be just as clique-y and unwelcoming as high school!
Here's a great quote from Timothy Keller's Hidden Christmas---The fact that God became human and emptied himself of his glory means you should not want to hang out only with the people with power and glitz, who are networked and can open doors for you. You need to be willing to go to the people without power, without beauty, without money. That is the Christmas spirit."
Blessings to you,
Patti
What a gift to give someone in need...LOVE ❤
Thank you Sandi, I thought it hit the nail on the head.
Yes Patti, you are so correct. I have found many to be exactly like exclusive high schoolers who never grew up. It ought not be in the Body of Christ...But is it the Body of Christ when people have this earthly character they are so very comfortable in? It's church, not Church whether it's in a church building or in the blogosphere or anywhere, when we see that exclusive behavior as I'm sure you have seen too.
Great quote and truth! "That is the Christmas spirit." ...And all year round too! : )
Blessings to you too, and thanks so much for taking the time to comment!
Christine, Yes it is. And ya know? Many times that person gives me the Gift of Love often ministering to me. <3
My husband and I have been asking the Lord of late to make us "salt and light." That is a prayer the Lord will answer, and surprisingly quick.
Merry Christmas, Amelia!
So true, mom! I can't imagine how some people searching for the truth might feel in some of these cliquish churches. May we all show Christ's love this season and throughout the year!
That quote is right on. Sadly, many are not loving even to "lovable" people much less those who are a challenge to love! Hopefully we can be the warmth and love of Christ to others.
Happy memories from Clifford the horse and Goat-Goat! Peaceful pasture and good times!!
Your manger scene is so pretty.
Oh how correct Marianna! You said it! I can't even begin to imagine what is in the hearts of those who treat others in this way. Yes, may *we* be that warmth to others.
Yes, such fun times with Clifford and Goat-Goat! Now we have Sparky the Longhorn too. I've watched him since a little calf, such a neat scene there.
I'm so glad you found that manger scene, just love their sweet faces.
Michelle, Exactly. I've seen so many sincere young Christians try to find a church only to be ignored as others shake hands and so forth, even praying for only the people in their comfortable circles. It ought not be and anyone who denies it is like that just might be part of the problem. I know there are some jewels out there but far and few between. I even see unbelievable clique problems here in blogging and it could be very painful for some. May we be that Light and Comfort to others whether it be in a Church or at the grocery store.
Hi Barbara, that is a great prayer! I know I've asked God for special Grace right now in this Season of the year and He has been faithful. May we have wisdom, knowledge and boldness saturated with love.
Merry Christmas to you dear friend!
That quote at the start is so true Amelia. I do believe God does draw people to us when they see the heart of Christ in us. It can't help but ooze out. People know when they're around someone who will listen and who truly cares. Bless you. Your Christmassy home looks beautiful too. Merry Christmas ~ Linda xo
Linda, You are a good example of someone who does reach out in love to others...So naturally so! When we have the Holy Spirit abiding in us and are spending that time with the Father how could it not? *big smile*
Thank you Linda, Merry Christmas to you dear one! I hope all is well this holy season. *hugs* ~Amelia
Back again... 😊 Enjoying your Christmas tree photo this morning, even though it is February. I see I said these are wise words back in my other comment. They really are. There are so many who feel like outsiders when they enter a church. We have to be aware of that. You mentioned this in your comment on my blog. It is so true.
Thank you so much Sandi, I really enjoyed your blog on the Flower Child. I sent it to my daughters, showed it to my youngest here at home and my husband. All really liked it and two of my daughters also commented how unfortunate it is how people are made to feel many times, they've seen the same thing as I have. It definitely makes us more aware of others and being sensitive to them and how they may feel about things. People may not remember what we said but they will remember how they are made to feel. God bless you Sandi!
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