beauty

Photo Shows Muslims Protecting Church in Egypt as Congregants Attend Mass

There was a time when I would read an article like this and wonder to myself, "What exactly does it mean to be Christians, if people who follow insert religion here can be better people?"

But the beautiful thing about following Christ and not just religion is that that is exactly the point. My life aim isn't to be better than the pious Muslim or Buddhist. If I tried, I might be able to accomplish it; but even if I did, it would add nothing to my life:

"For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die... " (Romans 5:7)

Perhaps for a good person one would dare to die, but Jesus did the unthinkable by dying for not only the righteous but even sinners:

"... but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8)

And that's how God finds me. Not as a "good Christian" or a good human being but as a sinner. This is where my hope is built. And that hope won't change no matter how much better of a person I may become (which does happen, mind you...).

So I read the article and I see Jesus' beauty reflected in the actions of Muslim leaders. Jesus stood up for the oppressed, and he defended a sinful woman being stoned. He loved the unlovable. I rejoice that this is the Savior I worship; exactly the kind of saving I need; the kind of love that is reflected in this act.

May we all come to see the beauty of Jesus everyday.