I’ve been seeing a lot of talk on religious freedom these last couple of days. More specifically, people pointing to their religious belief system as a basis for discrimination when providing services… and without getting into whether or not they have that right, I have to wonder why anyone would use Christianity as an excuse to deny any other man the same service he would offer another brother in Christ.
On the night of the last supper, Jesus washed the feet, broke bread with, poured out drink, and ate with those who would deny him, and even betray him. His asks:
“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.” (John 13:14-16)
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34:35)
The works of Jesus borne witness that the Father had sent him (John 5:31-36), and we should aim (what’s more, he commands) that in our works, in our serving, in our love, we should bear witness of him.
Though they would deny him, though they would betray him, he loved them, he served them, and let himself be crucified for them. In my brokenness, with so many imperfections, while being the sinful and unfaithful servant I am; my Lord, my King, came and died for me. THIS is the Christ I’ve come to know, and it’s HOW I’ve come to know Him.
If you choose not to serve or to discriminate for fear or timidity, then point to fear and timidity, but not to Christ, “For God gave us not a spirit of fearfulness; but of power and love and discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7)
And do not judge another man, “for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.” (Romans 2:1b) “Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” (Romans 2:4) Remember “the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7) and only God knows the hearts of men.
Amazing Paprika 