That’s plain enough, isn't it? You’re no longer wandering exiles. This kingdom of faith is now your home country. You’re no longer strangers or outsiders. You belong here, with as much right to the name Christian as anyone. God is building a home. He’s using us all -- irrespective of how we got here -- in what he is building. [Ephesians 2:19, from Eugene Peterson's The Message]
I spent approximately twelve years of my life praying daily for God to change me. I knew I was gay and had known this since I was a little kid. However, I was also told by well meaning Christians that this was not O.K. and that if I prayed long enough and sincere enough, God would change me.
Guess what? I prayed long enough and sincere enough...but nothing happened. In fact, it only made me feel depressed and exhausted. Finally, I considered the possibility that God's silence was my answer. Slowly, over time, I began to realize that my being gay was not an issue with God. It was only an issue with some Christians. I no longer felt like a stranger or an exile. I was fully embraced by God and had a spiritual home! Soon, my depression and exhaustion were replaced with God's peace and joy. Although I still have bad days every once in a while, where bigoted and fearful Christians try to make me feel like an outsider, I don't listen to them for long. I know I belong in the church with as much right to the name Christian as anyone!
What about you? Has anyone ever made you feel like an outsider? Unworthy of God's love? DON'T LISTEN TO THEM! They are wrong. The kingdom of faith is your "home country." Claim your turf and don't let any one try to serve you an eviction notice!
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