Why I Stay
“I imagine I was as thoroughly socialized and spiritually formed by churches of Christ as a person could be, though I was not alone. I shared this ethos with many friends and family. This was my home, and I felt at home. I still feel at home.” (Searching for the Pattern, pp. 62-63.)
Why do I stay?
I love my home despite its flaws. I love the shared confession of the Creator who sent the Messiah into the world and sent the Spirit into our hearts. I love the relationships. I love my historic heritage. And I could say more.
At the same time, I understand why some leave and find community elsewhere. Some have left because they have been excluded or abused, or they are simply exhausted. God bless them, and may God use them wherever they find a community of faith.
I stay to continue the journey of communal sanctification in love, kindness, and hope. I embrace and pursue hope because I believe in the God of hope.
September 23rd, 2019 at 10:09 am
John,
I don’t think we have ever met but have been at the same place once or twice. Just wanted to let you know how much I am challenged by your posts and writings and appreciate that you make me think.
Thank you brother,
Glenn R. Redmond
September 24th, 2019 at 10:50 am
Thanks, Glenn. Perhaps we will meet one day. Peace.
September 27th, 2019 at 4:41 am
I was not raised coc. It was never my heritage or part of my earliest identity. I knew zero Bible when I went to MSOP in 2000-02. I’m thankful for my foundation in Bible that came from your people, but cocs are not my people, and I could not stay. No institutional religion is my people or my home. Thank you for your blessing.