In a move that was as welcome as it was shocking the Nobel Peace Prize committee has made it's announcement this year. The award goes to the Christian church worldwide. Yes, it sounds strange to say.
No one could have seen this coming just a few short years ago, but that was before everything began to change. Who initiated this change is unclear, but the results have been overwhelming. What is this change? Read on.
It all started with a few Christians here and there who decided to buck tradition. They were no longer content with a Christianity centered on a building with all it's various activities and programs. They said they wanted to 'be the church' instead of just 'going to church'. Some remained in their churches while others stopped attending a brick and mortar church completely. Regardless of where or if they attended church the building itself was no longer the defining part of their belief.
At first their fellow Christians wouldn't accept these radicals. They were labeled as heretics. Yet they were undeterred. These revolutionaries simply continued to go about their daily lives showing God to those around them by their actions and words. Some started programs feeding the hungry. There were others that built shelters for the homeless. There is no end to the ways that these new Christians have found to show the compassion they say comes from following God. No matter what form it takes one thing remains clear. Their love for God results in a love for those around them. This love has changed hearts and lives. The number of Christians has exploded. New Christians are becoming disciples of those who showed them God and in turn showing him to others.
Christian was once a phrase that brought to mind a group of people who isolated themselves from the culture around them. They had their own music, their own clothes, their own movies, and their own everything. These days Christians have embraced the world around them with a love and compassion unseen before. I heard one of them say they were "in the world, but not of it". This reporter isn't sure what that means, but it seems appropriate.
Christians were also noted for their isolation even from other Christians based on differing theological positions. Recently though you find Christians have put aside their differences to focus on the things they have in common. Now that they have quit focusing on themselves (and each other) their focus has done what Christians have claimed they wanted to do for generations. They have truly started to reach their communities and the world for God.
Not that long ago it would have been inconceivable to give this award to the Christian church. Today it is not only conceivable, but well deserved.
* Wouldn't you just love to see this article some day?
- The Lead Heretic
Lenten Cyber Sabbatical
4 days ago
October 20, 2009 1:04 AM
A very noble dream.. and I am dreaming it with you!
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