“Wait Quietly” Sounds Really Good, Doesn’t It

Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about what it means to be a Christian and walk with Jesus. Contrary to popular church culture, where we see nothing but smiling faces, children laughing, and rainbows, the reality of walking with Christ is quite different.

In fact, for years I’ve almost been ashamed to share my doubts and struggles because when I look at the poster on the church wall, those people look nothing like me—they look like models hired to depict what we want Christianity to look like.

If they were really Christian, I’d see it in their eyes—how, despite the smiling faces, there would be a clench in the jaw and a determination in the eyes to not burst into tears—tears of joy for the suffering and trials they’ve gone through and tears of gratitude. Like the veteran who has seen “too much,” so is this Christian who has not only walked with Jesus but had to have been carried along the way—sometimes kicking and screaming.

What Does a Thief Take?

Have you ever considered how popular culture shapes your perspective on Scripture? I’m not referring to topical theology—how Scripture applies to everyday life—that’s too obvious. Instead, I’m thinking about those deeply planted thoughts and assumptions we don’t even realize are there until one day they suddenly surface with a silly grin and an unwelcome, “Surprise!”

Razor

wretched
ruses
fool
blind eyes.

gullible
grins,
nodding
knowing
everything,
understanding
nothing.

Are You Sure You’re the Remnant?

What does the word “remnant” mean to you? Before I was a Christian, my mind would probably have gone straight to rolled-up carpet remnants at a discount store. If carpets aren’t your thing, the word basically means something from a larger group remaining when that group or thing is gone. With that in mind, the next time you’re dining out, finishing your dinner, and wanting a doggy bag, try asking the waiter or waitress for a bag for your “remnant” instead.

I’m sure they’ll be amused, if not confused. Of course, the context is clear you’re talking about your leftovers. This brings us to one of my favorite topics—context.

Depending on the context, remnant might mean something different within Christianity. If you ask a Christian, they’ll probably tell you that a remnant includes the faithful God has saved from His wrath. While I won’t disagree with that definition, I can’t help but wonder if we ought to reconsider how Scripture uses the term before we go around identifying as the “Remnant God has Saved.”

Without looking at your Bible, where do you think Scripture first introduces a remnant? Noah? Surely, Noah and his family are described as a “faithful remnant.”