Wednesday, February 07, 2007

The "Aroma" of Christ?

I don't know how you feel about Michael Irvin making the Hall of Fame. Personally, I think he belongs there. Some might think I am being inconsistent -- considering the way I feel about T. O. Irvin has had well-reported off-the-field problems. But he was the consumate team mate. Hard-working. Supportive.

On the way home from Amberton last night, I was listening to ESPN radio. The late-night guy said some things that I at first found offensive. But the more I think about it, the more I realize he was somewhat right. He had received a lot of flack for saying that Irvin ought to be in the Hall. The emailers objected because of his poor character.

The talk-show host said that Irvin is a guy who wears his emotions on his sleeve. What you see is what you get. He said he preferred that over religious folks who presented a good public image, but who lived secret lives of immorality. He brought up Ted Haggard. A man who was publicly vocal against homosexuality, and who ended up being a "closet" homosexual. He also made the statement that for every two people who have become pediophyles because of pornography, he could name a thousand "Christians" in history. Of course, he was referring to the many Catholic priests, etc.

What he said broke my heart. This is what a person outside of our "Christian" bubble thinks about us. And quite frankly, he has a good argument. I have been thinking a lot lately about how poorly we have been salt, light and leaven in our communities. When our marriages fail at the same rate as non-believers. When we have as many men caught up in pornography (including ministers). When we are known in the community for dishonest dealings. When waitresses dread to see "church folks" coming because we are difficult.

It breaks my heart. But to whatever degree my heart is broken, imagine how Jesus must feel. It sure doesn't make Him look good. How unfair to Him! Because He is sooooooo good.

4 comments:

Jeff said...

I hate the things I do that do not reflect Christ. On the other hand, Satan wages a strong battle and we all lose to his temptations at times. I don't know much about the preacher you mention but I think his fall makes an easy target for someone grasping at straws for a reason to denounce Christianity and to reject Christ. It's a 2-for-1 bargain for Satan because he not only knocks a Christian down but adds fuel for the non-believer. I have known people who were most outspoken against sin which was also their biggest temptation. They know the danger and they know the truth but unfortunately the devil wins a battle.
Those who expect Christians to be perfect in word and deed miss the total beauty of our Savior, the One who forgave the unforgiveable.

Amy C said...

We do need to be held accountable, especially in ways that involve courtesy and gratitude. We NEVER have the "right" to be snippy, or rude or cheap to those who serve. THat is one of my pet peaves. We came to serve, not to be served, as for the sin, if we love as Christ loved, I think even the world might have a little grace for us sinners.

Blackie said...

Apparently you are easily misled Rick.

I suggest you look at the actual stats on the sex abuses and don't go dumping it all on Catholic priests.

The following Google link will take you to articles that put the problem into a far more realistic perspective.

http://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial&channel=s&hl=en&source=hp&biw=1600&bih=707&q=sex+abuse+protestnt&btnG=Google+Search

Rick Ross said...

Blackie,

I would suggest you reread the blog. I was citing Ted Haggard's remarks. I did not single out Catholic priests. I spoke to the reality that we all have given Jesus a black eye.