Paths of Growth

Many Christians are stunted in this growth. It’s not their fault, but it’s true. Many are simply unaware that this transformation is the great living tradition. Some go looking for it in other experiences or other religions, while others settle for a rote and static Christianity. Other Christians are stuck arguing about whose words, worship, and way of serving are the best. This is the old, dividing, superiority-game-playing self at work.

A starting point for all of us is this: accepting that we are accepted, fully. The world is soaked with Christ, you included. If you were excluded, Christ would neither be universal nor the reuniting Word made flesh. All must mean truly all, or it means nothing. God loves things by becoming them, uniting with them, not excluding them.

Coming to trust this for you is a lifelong journey of transformation. Jesus’ call to “Follow me” and to “Carry the cross” is to accept our disbelief and rebellion and failure as fully as Christ does, and more to accept others as well. 

This is where the rubber hits the road. It’s the healing miracle—the Lord opening the eyes of our heart—that can only be accomplished through prayer. 
--PC