The question "Why?" is probably asked more in the world of religion than at any other time. In Matthew 9, verses 11 and 14, the Bible asks, "Why do we and the Pharisees fast often but the disciples of Jesus do not fast?"
When the Pharisees saw Jesus eating with tax collectors and sinners, they asked Jesus disciples, "Why do you not fast?" When the disciples of John came to Jesus, they asked Him, "Why do we and the Pharisees fast often but your disciples do not fast?" Fasting was the Pharisees' way of showing the people that they were holy and John's disciples had practiced fasting out of holy discipline, but Jesus knew His time on earth was short. Jesus knew making friends among the sinners, teaching them His way, was what he needed to do and Jesus saw the value of food among friends.
Today, people are no different. We still like to have food when meeting new people. We have a neighborhood picnic to greet new neighbors. Friday night gatherings of small groups are common when we are instigating new thoughts or ideas among a community. Yet, many still ask of Jesus' followers, "Why?"
What we do seems to make no sense to many others. Church? Grace before meals? Sometimes we might even pray in the sight of strangers! My goodness! We make no sense to others by our actions, or by our refusal to act in other ways! What we do, or do not do at times seems delusional or just plain simple to others. Why do we believe such apparent .....nonsense?
Well, "Why not?" Why not believe in a Saviour? Why not practice loving others as He did? Why not show love to our enemies rather than hate them? Why not thank God before we eat a meal that He has provided? Why not let my heart and my voice sing because I am grateful to know God?
Thank you, Lord Christ, my Jesus, my Friend, for helping your believers to understand and KNOW there is a difference between the world's ways and God's ways. Amen
Jo INMN
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