Unless you've spent time in the church world, the title of this post may seem a bit odd to you. Of course, it may also seem odd if you in fact are a christian, but were never subjected to such a flippant declaration. I've been a christian since the summer of 1976, when as a kid I made the decision to follow Jesus while we were living in the Midwest. I shared the story briefly here.
Over the years, I've been involved in different types of churches. Big churches, small churches, Baptist, Pentecostal, Word of Faith.
One belief that was popular in much of my past church experience is the idea that God still does miracles and heals today just like He did in the stories we read in the Bible. Now, I have do doubt about that actually. I do believe it. But I also believe that every situation is different and God does (or doesn't) what He's going to do however He wants and in His own time.
Yes, I believe faith is important. There are examples in the New Testament of Jesus healing those who simply displayed faith in His power.
But what about those who suffer and don't seem to ever get better? They pray. Others pray for them. Sometimes for days, weeks, months, and years. What about them?
I have a dear friend who has suffered for many years with a debilitating illness. I found her story so compelling and at the same time inspiring to me. Her name is Kellie. Please read her story here.
Kellie is also in my blogroll under the title RSDGirl. I highly recommend you check her out regularly.
And if you are someone who lives with chronic pain or suffering, I believe you'll find her to be an inspiration to you as well.
I often wonder why people who would say this feel so...justified, I guess, in questioning another's faith or letting loose with the holier-than-thou treatment. Seriously. It's the biggest failing of one segment of the church-going population (notice I don't say "Christians")--that's the "better than you" nonsense.
ReplyDeleteIf that's what people get out of church, I seriously question their brand of Christianity. I love Jesus for what he did and what he was, and the fact that he was so caring toward the most marginalized people in his world--women, children, lepers, etc. He wouldn't go all judgmental on people the way some so-called Christians do. He was good. And he didn't run around hosting "healing retreats" while making pleas for money, either!!
Thought-provoking, as usual, Valerie. :)
Thanks!
DeleteUgh. My spiritual life was seriously f.u.b.a.r_ed for a while because of this idea. I am ashamed to have fallen for it (would a good father give his children everything on demand?) The perfect storm of desperate circumstances, a previously easy life, and an ambitious pastor made an already difficult trial unbearably disappointing. And of course, when you point out that "hey, this idea doesn't work", no one considers it, because hey, it's your fault.
ReplyDeleteAnd what role does trust and hope play in your life if you can get everything now if you just have "enough faith"? We shouldn't underestimate how harmful this idea could be.
I understand where you're coming from Anon. But, you don't have to be ashamed. It's a pretty alluring theology. As a black woman I can now look back and understand more fully how the "health and wealth' gospel has been so accepted within much of the black church. There's a sense of power that comes with that belief. Thanks so much for stopping by. :)
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