@RileyG
I saw your question in the millennial forum and read the replies. I considered my time in other paths and why Christianity wasn’t appealing. I think its the mindset. I was privileged to know and study with learned people whose hunger was never-ending.
They went beyond professions and brought their beliefs to life. Many learned languages to read obscure texts in the native tongue. They embraced the culture and practices wholeheartedly and developed the skills and customs. They learned the music, dance, craftsmanship, cuisine and so on.
But I don’t see that in the church. Just enough is the norm. I don’t see the passion and hunger I encountered with them or thirst for more. There’s lots of discussions and debates. Volunteer opportunities and fellowship. But that’s all.
Unlike Christians, there was no separation or Sunday only activities. Our beliefs were a continuum interwoven in daily living. There was always a way to pay homage, to deepen our faith or grow in some capacity.
The fellowship was different. No one sat on the sidelines or went ignored. We were very welcoming. Whether you knew them or not. I’ve gone to events where I didn’t know a soul and classes too. But I always spent the day in someone’s company sharing our experiences and desires over a meal or bout of laughter.
We put our pennies on religious goods or far flung events. Building a library, apothecary, etc. was a badge of pride. We were conversant in numerous subjects and added more continually. We wanted to improve. You couldn’t bury your head in the sand or make excuses. Someone would call you on it and I liked that.
Christianity is a lonely path. That’s why many abandon it. It’s not because of the world or sin. It’s because the church is a building not a people. A lot of posturing and emptiness.
But I’ve been on the other side. I know what its like to have someone in my corner through thick and thin. To have genuine support not a familiar “I’ll pray for you or sending prayers” that requires minimal involvement.
I know what its like to have a teacher who calls each day, challenges, and prepares me. One who answers my questions and calms my fears and uncertainties. Who refers me to their instructors and peers when needed. I didn’t have to walk alone.
It shouldn’t be a solitary path. But for more than a few it is. It shouldn’t drive you to the Internet. You should have people in your midst to turn to. It shouldn’t be lackadaisical or lukewarm. You should be beacons of light for the world.
There’s something to be said when those who don’t know the risen Christ out work…out pray…out study…and out shine sons and daughters.
It’s more than words. It’s more than what you say. It’s the things you do.