Thoughtful Thursday

A few years ago God led us to leave the church we were a part of.  

We had felt Him leading us away for several months, but then something happened that let us know that He was serious!!!  This was a difficult time for us for several different reasons.  My grandmother had just passed away and I was grieving her loss.  My Mom had some medical issues....and still does!!!  

God knew exactly what He was doing, though (surprise, surprise ;-) and we are so glad that we listened and obeyed, even though it was not an easy decision.  

For several years I had been feeling like something just wasn't "right".  

I kept telling Pappy that I was getting somewhat disheartened with "organized religion"....and I still am!!!  That second sentence about it not being about policies, procedures (and I'll add politics).....

is what disappoints me about today's churches!!!

 It finally dawned on me.....

my relationship with the Lord has nothing to do with religion. 

 Yesterday, I received the following in an e-mail from Peace Be With U and it is worded much better than I could ever even begin to explain.  

I fall so short of being the Christian that I should be.....

but I wouldn't trade this relationship with Jesus for anything in the world!!!

Christianity is not a religion....it's a RELATIONSHIP with Jesus Christ, and it's personal!   It's not about policies, procedures, perfection and performance.   We all fall terribly short if we are being honest.   It's about believing that Jesus is exactly who He said He was and asking Him to be the Lord of your life.   It's about loving others like He did.   Unconditionally, with no strings attached other than just loving them for who they are. It's about forgiving others like He did.   Even when the world says they don't deserve to be forgiven. It's about reaching out to those in need and helping them.   Not when it's convenient....but when its completely inconvenient. It's about loving God with all of your heart, mind and strength and making Him the number one priority in the life He gave you. It's about realizing that without Jesus we are all just sinners, separated from God and on the fast track to eternal destruction.   It's about loving the One who traded His life for yours because of His scandalous love for you!   It's not a religion....so stop trying to be perfect!   It's not about "cleaning up"..., it's about "showing up" and developing a personal RELATIONSHIP with the Son of God who can and will transform your life, your world and your eternity when you invite Him into your heart! The sole purpose of our ministry and our store is to introduce as many people as possible to Jesus Christ because we know that once a person meets Jesus face to face, their life and their eternity will forever change!   You just can't encounter the risen King without falling deeply in love with Him!  Once you do, His heart begins to change your heart and that begins to change the world.   Help spread His message of love, hope and forgiveness! Peace Be With U  In HIS Most Precious L♥ve....and with mine, too!!! Blessings, Deb