Kenya, Somalia, 'Blessed and Favored'

This past two weeks have been both a test of my faith, and a struggle with my Spirit. For the past month or so, God has truly giving me a heart of compassion, and a heart for doing instead of just talking. It is as if everyday He asks "Will you watch, share and do nothing, or will you pray, give and make a difference?"

I may seem a little wierd to most, but I do not listen to the radio, chat about politics, or speak about religion (I am a Christian). During times of silence in my day I speak to God and ask Him questions about why, how and when? I have a hard time with people who go to church, do Bible studies, serve on committees, give their tithes, and yet have no compassion for the lost and hurting other than orally speaking it.

When Judy and I found ouresleves in the 'Charismatic' scene one of the big phrases was "I am blessed and highly favored!" At the time this sounded good because that is what we were being taught and just like little puppies we followed. Over the past eight or so years it began to offend me when people said in their 'Pomp' "I am blessed and highly favored." Why? Because Jesus never said it, Peter, John, Paul or none of the others said it either. Why? Because they never wanted to receive the glory, or show favoritism. James makes it real clear about being proud and boastful, "But God give us more grace. That is why the scripture says: 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." Maybe we need to realize that when reading this God has given us grace in order to receive what is being shared. Jesus Himself critisized the Religious leaders for their 'Proud and Boastful' lifestyles. The scripture is clear also when it says "God shows no favoritism."

So, what does the world of unbelievers see when we strut around proclaiming and wearing tee shirts saying "I am blessed and highly favored?" Invision with me people serving these dying souls in endless lines and one of those being served asking them "How are you doing?" The one serving says "I am blessed and highly favored!" Some reading this will attest that they are offering them hope that they could also. Let us get real though, they are where they are and most won't see a longer life ahead of them. Yes they can surrender to Christ, but can they say they are blessed? Can they ease the pain of losing family, children, and all they have? What we say, how we respond, what we do, and who we claim to be in being watched by more than we could ever imagine. What are we teaching them and what are we showing them?" It is not documented or recorded that St. Francis, Mother Theresa and all the others that gave their lives helping others ever said these words and why "They proclaimed Christ and what He did, not what you would get if you chose Him."

One final note; A phrase could never exchange the gratitude that I have for my Lord Jesus and all that He has done for me. To this day I am still bewilderd and amazed at Him accepting me. Why not say "I am humbled everyday that He would love me and die for me."