Teachings from the Trail Blog

Well, I haven’t scared you away yet. Others, that’s not the case. Many have visited once and haven’t come back.

For those who haven’t come back, I feel like I may owe them an apology. I realize some of what I write here may be a little over-the-top for people. I may write of things that some don’t understand. I may hold views that don’t agree with yours. I may challenge readers in ways that make them uncomfortable. My hope is that they’ll welcome the challenge rather than turn from it. Should I apologize?

In considering Matthew 10:32-33, I don’t think so. Here Jesus says: “Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven.” (NLT)

That verse really gets my attention and encourages me to continue doing what I’m doing. I want Jesus to acknowledge me when I get to heaven.

A former work colleague and now friend recently mentioned reading my blog. He expressed surprise at the nature of the posts. He knew I was a Christian but I don’t think he was prepared for the views I expressed. I sensed he may have been a little uncomfortable with the way in which I have come to express my faith. I’m sure he’s not alone.

Should I apologize?

I don’t think so. Jesus said in Matthew 7:21: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” (NIV)

I believe I am following the will of God by writing. And I certainly don’t want to be one of the people condemned to the lake of fire for eternity.

I will, however, apologize for the times when I speak in “Christianese,” using words not commonly used outside of Christian circles. I try to filter those words out but I’m sure some slip through.

I also apologize if my words feel condemning, self righteous or judgmental. They are certainly not intended to be. I struggle with sin, surrendering to God, relationships and spiritual disciplines just like most other people. I hope you sense that in what I write.

I am sorry if you feel it necessary to avoid me in person for fear that I’m going to “preach” to you. Those who know me will tell you that I’m much more reserved in person than I am online. For some reason, I’m able to express things in writing I would not say in person. I feel a sense of anonymity, I guess. Please don’t be afraid of me. I haven’t lost all social graces and know when and where it’s appropriate to speak my faith.

I will continue writing. I just hope that some continue to reading. I hope that you appreciate the perspective and the challenges I lay out. More importantly, I hope my words encourage you in your faith and help you grow deeper.