This past Sunday, I had the privilege to attend a Greek Orthodox Church with my son. The joy was in the time that God allowed us to discuss scripture, the Biblical church, Christianity, orthodoxy, genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. I learned so much and grew to admire my beloved son even more during that precious time together. He is a young man pursuing genuine and authentic relationship with Jesus and his faith journey is marvelous to watch and be apart of.
It was almost overwhelming as I witnessed the beauty of this Orthodox Church and its commitment to the truth of scripture. The honoring of God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the Saints, and the church’s history. I am so amazed at their protection of the early church and the instructions of Jesus. I am in awe that this church existed 1400-plus years prior to the Protestant Reformation. The Nicene Creed that was adopted after several hundred years of consideration remains, leads and guides this church today. Simply marvelous.
I was struck by the commitment to salvation and a recognition that genuine change requires time, guidance, consideration, examination and then, only then life altering change in behavior and life approach.
I admired the understanding of the respect due our Savior in how we praise and worship. How we approach the altar of Grace and Mercy and zealously protect the honor due the God of all things. The Creator of all things. The Majestic Father who is and was and always will be.
Anomaly is a word that should define the Church. Anomaly is a word that should define the Church’s members, ‘Christians.’ I witnessed a 1400+ year old Church that stands strong in the understanding that those of us who profess the name of Christ and Christianity should be an anomaly that blatantly stands out in a World pursuing Hell. What joy to experience a group so strongly committed to protecting the edicts of Christianity, delivered directly by the Apostles.
I am not looking for a theological fight because I realize there are deep divides between modern day Protestants and age-old Orthodoxy. What I am trying to convey is the joy of a life long Protestant that was led to a strong force for the Kingdom that understands the difficulty and outright commitment that being the Father’s daughter or son requires.
What a privilege to hear my son say, “dad, it seems the Church is trying to attract the World by becoming more like the World, than committing itself to stand out from the World.” Wow! Such amazing insight from my beloved son in whom his Father in Heaven is pleased.
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2 ESV
I love how the Father expands my horizons and narrows my focus.
Thank you, Lord.