Dear Christians,
It’s me, Jesus. You know, the Son of God, the Savior of mankind, Emmanuel and all that. So…We need to talk. I know it’s rude of me to just show up out of the blue like this, but you’ve got me a little bummed out, and, frankly, I just had to speak up.
See, when I left you guys, things were going pretty well. I mean, it wasn’t perfect, but most of you really seemed to get me and what I was all about. We’d spend time together, just shooting the breeze. We’d talk about the world, life, love, and, before we knew it, I was introducing you to my Dad. We were pretty close.
Remember when we’d travel together, frequenting all the local joints, starting up conversations with the regulars? Man, we met some interesting people. We’d listen to their stories, and sometimes I’d throw in a parable of my own. So many teachable moments. Those were the days.
I really miss hanging out with you. Lately, it seems the only time I see you is on the occasional Sunday at church. You’ll run up to me and give me a giant hug or a high five, and we’ll sit down and have a friendly chat – you know, catch up like old pals. But, then, if our paths cross later on in public, you act super weird – like I’m some A-list celebrity and you’re one of the privileged few allowed in my inner circle. It’s as if any outsiders – those who haven’t met me or who just don’t find me all that interesting – simply don’t make the cut in your book.
What’s up with that? I mean, don’t get me wrong – it means a lot that you think I’m a cool dude and all, but you know I’m all about inclusion. I have no inner circle. No matter your creed, gender, race, background, economic status, whatever…let’s hang out! I can’t stand that elitist “members only” nonsense. Have you forgotten how awesome people can be if you just take the time to get to know them? So what if they’re different from you – that’s even better! Different is good.
Dad wanted to remind you that, no matter how different (or wrong) you feel someone is, you all have something in common: He created you in His image, and He loves you equally. Just as you are. No matter what. Like any good Dad, he doesn’t pick favorites, and neither should you. Remember the conversation we had awhile back about loving one another? Maybe I wasn’t clear. I meant love everyone, not just the popular kids. I’m not feeling the love, guys.
I hope you’re not taking this the wrong way. I’m just asking you to open your minds a little, embrace the diversity this world has to offer. Let yourselves be challenged. Experience other cultures. Listen to a different point of view. Spend less time judging and more time loving. I promise, if you put yourselves out there, you’ll find that most people are pretty neat. And, you know what? I’d bet they’d think you were pretty neat, too!
Anyway, glad I got that off my chest. I hope we’ve all learned something here. Just remember, when in doubt, it’s simple – do whatever I would do. And spread the LOVE. I’ve got faith in you, Christians. Do me proud.
Oh, and Dad sends His love.
Peace,
Jesus
Photo courtesy of: http://www.ibelieve.com
for the love of words 