I was sick, awfully sick, standing in the emergency room – but just barely. I was around 18 years old – alone –my parents were not there to help me. The intake clerk asked me what religion? “What?” I thought, but no words came out. She asked me again. I didn’t know what religion. I was raised in a religion – went through all the motions, but didn’t understand – my eyes were still veiled. “How do I know what religion I am?” I asked. She looked at me – no pity – no leading – no answers – and simply said it is where you go to church. Weak from the illness, I told her I had not been to church since the last compulsory time, around age 13. She then told me it was usually whatever your parents were. Thoughts swam in my head. I had not seen my dad in church except once in a great while – maybe three times since I could remember. No help there. My mom talked of God. And when she could get away without too much fussing from my dad, we boarded a bus to a church. I would pick that religion I decided.
It would be sometime much later in my life that I would choose my religion. I was stubborn – I heard the truth, but didn’t see the people around me living it. Even then – I saw everything in black and white. Looking back, I regret not having a better understanding – not seeking – not knowing. So when someone gives their life to the Lord, I am compelled to tell them the whole truth. Making a decision to serve the Lord is not easy – you may have to leave those behind that are dead to the light if they won’t go with you or won’t let you go. Things don’t get easier – just more tolerable. And bad stuff still happens to good people. It’s about “developing” a friendship with someone you can’t see with your eyes or usually hear with your ears. A friendship where you are pursuing God, and then changing to be a reflection of the Lord. You will realize that everyone is on a different track to become more like Him, so you will not judge someone else’s shortcomings. Everyday, you forgive those who wrong you, and forgive yourself. “I’m sorry” becomes a broken record broadcast from your lips but with compassion and genuine sorrow. You will leave things you used to love to do and fill that time with things God wants you to do – as He leads. It’s a place of acceptance – of joy – of purpose. You are adopted into a new family that is enormous. People will encourage you, love you, exhort and correct you – praying for you to reach your full potential. New friends – new family – a joining – a belonging. And not just any family – a royal one with promises made by God Himself. And even when all around appears dethroned – you will know that He is still on the throne.