Yeah, it's strange how people will talk out of their ass and call it inspired of God. I do call myself a Christian, and am forever amazed at how the actions of the most zealous seek mainly to elevate themselves in some warped world view without being the least bit congnizant of their neighbor's reality. "Loving your neighbor as yourself" is really not that difficult, unless you're thoroughly blind.

This broke my heart Mark. But I must disagree ~ you can not label everyone simply by the acts of a few. That would be like calling every white person that "h" word and every black person that "n" word. (I cringe at even the thought of those words.) True Christ Followers love and serve. We don't think we are better or holier than. As a matter of fact, I am like every other person ~ a sinner. Not perfect in any way. I have my moments ~ moments that make me want to look around to see if anyone was watching. And I assure you, we (Christ Followers) are watched. I just choose to put my faith in a God Whom I have seen work in my life and the lives of others. If that labels me as one of those so-called Christians then I just have to try harder at showing the truth in my life. The way I live, because what it comes down to is living for Christ ~ not myself. And I hope that shows in everything I do. Thank you for sharing this, because it made me more aware of how I am supposed to be. Love you!!! Shon :)

...mark, hey at you...jimbenz says what i say, and so does shon...but myman you TOO say what i say...i "see" who you're looking at...[sad to say] sometimes i feel like i may be one of those of which you speak...i am currently awash with congruities, and incongruities re: Christianity...and some of the dangest interrupters, misogynistic, holier-than-thous[could ever be!] are cloaked in a false dress 'cause it's transparent, like jimB says to all who [choose to] see...and even spongebob squarepants who says "you can't hide what's inside"...i'm not sure me and His followers see eye to eye either...politics, religion, sheesh! it's a wonder we get anything done...we can't quit arguing...descartes' and aquinas' been wonderin' that for years... :-0, love the poem and the emphasis of god,[no capital] then you transition[very well] into a capital G which gives [at least] a nod to the choir...love the poem, and existential quandry we find ourselves in...you have to go IN to find OUT !!! such is life...peace, chaz

Yeah, Mark, the words ring true. I can't argue with what Jim, Shon, and Charlie said. Having been deeply hurt - not once - but many times by so-called church going Christians - I've redefined my faith as a Christian. And yes, I do call myself one - imperfect, sometimes lacking, but very much believing in the power and love of God. I can totally understand your words and intent because on one hand Christians say Jesus accepts everyone - but they as people compartmentalize and reject. If Jesus came for all people, then what right do these church people have to judge and denote a standard of perfection? I have a stronger faith in Jesus than if I went to church and allowed them to put me in a little box of faith they insist on. I can understand why you don't call yourself a Christian.
~Chelle~