Many of the events of this past week, combined with a recent assignment I have undertaken, have led me to some reflection. Due to this assignment to which I have agreed, I have been reading again the works of my favorite author, James Baldwin. In his book, The Fire Next Time, he recalls a conversation with Elijah Muhammad in which, as he seeks to respond to what he believes is an appeal to be a part of the Nation of Islam, Baldwin says, I left the church twenty years ago and I havent joined anything since. I am certain there are many who feel and would echo and express Baldwins sentiment. You became or are frustrated and angry with the church, feeling the church is irrelevant and maybe even a waste of time. So you left. I realize, and for any part or role I may have contributed to this, repent for the hurt, shame, pain and disappointment the church has caused. But now, to those disaffected, disappointed or disillusioned with us - the church - I plead with you now to come back. Help us be stronger and to do better, even if we have failed in this in the past, what we are called to do - to love you with the love of God. I still believe the church has something valuable to offer men and women, all of us trying to find God and meaning in life. I am not making this appeal because I want members; I sincerely want to show you the love of God through Jesus Christ that I have received and known personally. Would you mind taking the risk to come back to the church - even if you were hurt before - and come see for yourself?
Posted on: Fri, 14 Nov 2014 14:02:58 +0000
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