For most of us, it is very awkward to stand out, especially when what calls attention to us is not favorable to the people around us. To disagree with the opinion of the majority or to look different than the rest of the crowd is so powerfully uncomfortable that our most frequent reaction is to try to just blend in. Definitely, there are times when blending in is wise. To be different just for the sake of being different not only undermines credibility, but it’s also obnoxious.
There are, however, times when blending in cannot be an option. Think of all the great characters of history. Most were people who spoke against the status quo and suffered greatly for it. But in their stubborn defiance of the majority, peoples’ minds were changed, and the course of history altered.
In no other area of life is it more disastrous to blend in than in our relationship with Jesus Christ. In his own words Jesus called his followers to be light and salt in the world. Those metaphors don’t exactly describe people who go along to get along. During the Old Testament, there was a time when the people of Israel chose to blend in rather than carry out their responsibility of representing God in this world. The results were shockingly disastrous.
We live in a time when people are told to “leave your religion at home.” For disciples of Jesus Christ, that is impossible. To blend in is to lose what we have been given. If you feel that you are being carried along by the current of popular opinion but have the uneasy feeling that current is going in the wrong direction, join us for one of our weekend worship services. Standing out can be a refreshing alternative to blending in.
Weekend worship service times: Saturday: 6:00 pm – Sunday:
10:00 am
