But in the last few years I have never felt inclined to invite anyone to join -- certainly not my beloved Protestant family on my husband's side, certainly not anybody from my Catholic parish --- because I would be ashamed to expose them to the coarseness and aggression which are on constant display, especially on the Religion Forum.
If there were ever any innocent lurkers who would stroll into the RF to see what the nature of conservatives' Christian faith might be, they would be shocked and repelled forever. It is the perfect antiGospel, a stick in the eye.
I have friends here --- of all denominations --- to whom, perhaps, I owe my life, since when I was at death's door they generously prayed for me, and the Lord heard their prayer and spared me. So I stay. But I do not know whether my being here is my vocation or my vice.
I ask forgiveness for any way I have offended.
And thanks, Lonely Bull, for providing my new tagline.
Latest thread, with which you the reader can read an update or pray (whether it's posted or "silent"):
I'm Back After 6 Weeks in Hospital, Thanks for Prayers (Ecumenical, No Fighting)
If there were ever any innocent lurkers who would stroll into the RF to see what the nature of conservatives' Christian faith might be, they would be shocked and repelled forever. It is the perfect antiGospel, a stick in the eye.
This is my concern as well. If you the reader are quick to profess your beliefs, does your posting life display them or deny them?
Now, I do not agree with others who have posted that the Religion Forum should be closed or never should have started--but the forum is what we, as posters, make of it.
"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
"Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ."
[1 Peter 3:15-16]
"Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
"If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
"Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
"Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
"Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."
[Romans 12:17-21]
And thanks, Lonely Bull, for providing my new tagline.
You're welcome. I myself would've used it if I could've gotten the whole verse to fit in the tagline space (not that anything is wrong with your adaptation).
More from James: "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God."