I am thankful that I live in the United States of America. I consider myself a patriot. I love my country and would give my life for her. That said, it follows that I believe in our great Constitution and in the first Amendment.
I don't keep my religion a secret, but I also don't try to 'convert' others to believe as I believe. I try to be patient with the beliefs of others and I will listen, but I am strong in my faith.
Sometimes it is just important to say that Jesus Christ is my Savior. It doesn't matter to me where you worship or whether you worship, but I ask that my beliefs be respected as I respect those of others. Be strong in your faith and I will respect you, but please give that same respect back to me. It is my right as an American (as a person!), as it is the same for all Americans.
I know in my heart that I am saved. Praise God. I will also give my life for Him if it ever comes to that. I would not betray my faith by pretending to be something I am not. I am a Christian. I was baptized in the Presbyterian Church. I was raised in the Methodist Church. I have converted and now attend the Catholic Church. In my heart, I am just a Christian. That is what matters to me. Not the building, but that I can worship with other Christians and feel His presence there. It's the people who make up the Church. Believers.
For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”
Matthew 18:20
This has just been on my mind lately and I needed to write it down. Peace and love to you!
You are so right when you say that the building is just that. I hope and pray that the freedom you enjoy is forever. However, I see and read things that truly upset me as so much has changed since 9/11. Have a good day, Terri. It's Friday Eve!
ReplyDeleteOh, I love this post. "I'm just a Christian." Amen!!! Thank you for sharing your beliefs and your faith and your honesty. HOPE you have an awesome day!!!
ReplyDeleteAMEN! Preach it on, Terri. (sorry, got a little "southern" on you, smiles)What a great post to wake up too. Have a Blessed Thursday.
ReplyDeleteHave a great day!
ReplyDeleteVery good Terri! I have a problem with today's churches, but I know without a doubt when I die I will be in heaven with my Savior. I am a Christ follower and try to live out his teachings to the best of my abilities. Unashamed this post is!
ReplyDeleteMichelle, I too have a problem with churches today. I know my heart and I know the people I worship with and that is what matters to me.
DeleteTerri, you have said it all and I totally agree with you. The Bill of Rights gives us freedom OF religion not freedom FROM religion. I heard a pastor on the radio last night who said tolerance is not agreement with a person's view, it's giving the other person the right to have that view.
ReplyDeleteI too feel the same ...about my country...AND my rights. A quote I have on my sidebar is Theocracy, too many Theos....in other words, like you, I have my religion...just don't preach to me about your beliefs and both of us respect that with each individual freedoms! That is what America is about. At least how I feel.
ReplyDeleteAmen Terri! Well said and peace and Christian love right back at ya. xo
ReplyDeleteTerri, to say Jesus Christ is your/our Savior, that just says it all. Hope your week has gone well and you have a great week-end!
ReplyDeleteYou are so right, Teri and it made me happy to read this post. Those who trust in Jesus as Savior are he Church and has nothing to do with denominations (which actually divide the Body rather than being in unity as Jesus Himself prayed that we would be.) thanks for your words today.
ReplyDeleteWell said Terri!
ReplyDelete