Belief Statements - Robinrohan

Many of the young men whom I talk with have reported to me that one of the main reasons they attend church is because of pretty women. The Lord works in mysterious ways!Everyone is drawn to church by an unfullfilled need. When, as is often happens, the church lets us down, we occasionally give up, thinking to ourselves that we ARE still in Kansas and there is no magic kingdom.One could also argue that existensialism and/or nihilism are merely safe places to never be anxious.I would rather dies believing in something worth believing in than to die conclusing that this life is all there is.For now, however, Im content to get on with living.Alcoholic beverages are optional.

Yes, that is initially the reason that many people are drawn to church....they wish to commune. Many times, many churches are coldly exclusivist,(usually unconsciously) judgemental, and otherwise quite frankly boring.Many people, having experienced such types of social clubs, reject the entire concept of communion with others based on the behavior of those same others.The argument can be made that many other social outlets, such as the friendly neighborhood pub, provide more comfortable interactions than the church.However... you pay more at the pub.

But you are, Robin, you are. Or is a better word unique?

This brings to mind an old church that I used to attend. Often, street people would venture in seeking food, suckers to give them money, and/or money from the church. The pastor used to say that he was not in the business of "feeding devils" and he would only feed those who wished to turn their lives over to Christ and attend the church!! Contrasted with this, there was a large Catholic church downtown who daily fed 2000 people with no strings attached. Critics would say that it bred co-dependence, but I wonder which of those two churches was more Christlike to the urban refugees seeking a meal?On a personal level, I can see both arguments. If I see a homeless man looking as destitute as possible with a cardboard sign, I usually don't give them any money. I have learned that begging can be a lucrative business.Am I wrong in my approach, Robin? Do you have many beggars in the town you live in? How do you treat them?

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“There are two kinds of people: those who say to God, "Thy will be done," and those to whom God says, "All right, then, have it your way” --C.S.Lewis

Yes, me too! I always use the classic Christian Litmus Test WWJD (What Would Jesus Do?) Based on my understanding of how Jesus was/is, I would assume that He would know the intentions and the motives of any wouldbe street beggar. Jesus also would be looking at the heart of the giver.(us) If I were wasting my money on vices and yet being stingy to those with an outstretched hand, I may be judged on my behavior and attitude regardless of the motives of the beggar, don't you think?