I have these two friends who are being treated like crap.

My two friends (I will call them Bill and Jane) are being treated this way by their church; and worse yet, by people they never thought would turn on them.  It frustrates me.  I know we live in a cruel world where people do mean things, but one would think the church would be a safe haven.  I know that sounds very idealistic, but a place that proclaims the love of God should be a safe place.  And I refuse to let go of that utopia.  Maybe that is why it hurts so bad when your fellow "Christians" turn on you.  I want to believe I can trust my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.  At Salem I feel I can do this; I am treated very well, but Bill and Jane do not have this same security at their church.

I so desperately want to do something, but not being a member at Bill and Jane’s church gives me very little voice.  Part of me wants to reach out and ring someone’s neck.  Part of me wants to lash out and strike back, but that would not be a Christian response.  Then I talked with Bill and he feels the same way.  Lashing out is NOT the correct response.  He is hurt, but striking back will only fuel the fire, but more importantly, striking back would not show the love of God.  And you know…I was taught something.  The sin in me was placed in front of my eyes.  I am not sure how I would respond if placed in Bill and Jane’s shoes, but I know how I should respond…I just need to look at Bill and Jane.

And I am not only upset because Bill and Jane are close friends, but that people in the body of Christ would act this way (there I go again…my idealistic world shining forth).  Where is the grace?  Where is the forgiveness?  Where is the love of God?  I want to ask all these questions, but I find myself on the outside looking in knowing that me getting too involved would only make matters worse.  So I guess the only thing left for me to do is to be a friend to Bill and Jane and let them know how much they are loved.  Hopefully that will give them strength.  Hopefully God will give them the wisdom to endure.  Hopefully God will use this situation to His glory.

I am a pastor and I should know better.  I should know people will do hurtful things (even within the church).  But I refuse to let go of my utopia world where people are kind and treat each other as Christ would want to be treated.  And I know I will feel hurt and let down when these expectations are not met, but I am willing to live with that; for I know my utopia world will be coming because of Jesus Christ.  In the mean time, hang in there, Bill and Jane.  Know that you are loved by Connie and I.  But more importantly, know that you are loved by an awesome God.

SO TO EVERYONE OUT THERE:  Treat each other with respect; in the way Christ would want to be treated.  Be mature and intelligent in your dealings with people (don’t be childish).  Show patience and understanding.  Have an open mind to new ideas.  Don’t take pot shots.  And if you have something to say, say it and don’t hide behind anonymity.  Be a light in this dark world and show how much God loves each of us.  Proclaim the Good News, but more importantly, LIVE IT.

AND LASTLY:  Be a little "Christ" to someone; and don’t treat people like crap. 

Praise be to God always and forever.  Amen! -EDH-