"The light comes forth""Sense of community"
"An intimate atmosphere"
"...flow with grace..."
If you glanced quickly at these phrases, they could describe a Christian gathering.
But they actually belong to an article describing the opening of a new yoga studio.* This is an example of how the language we (or others) use can be misleading.
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I called attention recently to an Episcopalian presiding bishop who has a focus on peace and working together.
The problem is that, to me, "community" is not the Gospel. Being in "light" as an isolated experience is not the Gospel. Living in harmony and living for the Truth are often contradictory.
The point is that we need to be careful of how we speak. We need to be clear and specific. Love, peace, patience...in fact, all of the fruits of the Spirit are valued in many religions, not just Christianity. Using vague language is not productive.
The yoga article confused me initially, and it made me wonder if I confuse others with my speech. When you begin to speak more specifically about Christianity, people may not necessarily be appreciative. They may think that it is starting to sound pretty exclusive. But at least you have been honest about what you believe.
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. -Hebrews 12: 2
*Storrow, Ben. "The light comes forth-Goshen resident plans to open Prakasa Yoga Studio." In The Daily Hampshire Gazette. July 13, 2009. Pages C1, C3.
If Jesus walked on this eath today he'd stick with bums and outcasts. He'd use the "f" word and other strong language, just like they do. He'd stink like sweat, not like a wonderful Head 'n Shoulder shampoo. He'd be angry. Frustrated. Hungry. Refusing to eat the food that makes 30% of americans so fat. Ugly fat. He'd be crying a lot. Screaming at the top of his voice sometimes. He'd refuse to visit the local churches. Doesn't matter which ones. He'd find HIS church somewhere in a park, where homeless and prostitutes gather. Have you seen them there lately? I have. They are out there. With no one to say hi to them.
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