Call me George

Dear Friend,

OK, first, can I call you friend. Know, that on my side I am trying. At least I'd like to think I am. But wow. Can I be honest? You're not making it easy. It doesn't have to be. Maybe it does not need to be. But the dynamic is strange, can we both agree on that. Have you noticed?

There seems to be a strong reaction in you-- a deep seated need to set me straight on Jesus. I'm always interested when people have a need to tell me who Jesus is "not". Perhaps you should know that it tells me more about the person I'm listening to than it does about Jesus. But that's just me. It does seem strange, though. I am curious. I know. This letter seems very passive-aggressive. It is intended to be completely passive. It is me trying not to be confrontational, because I do not want to blow up your life. It is me trying to be careful what I say, so I do not tear you down in a way I some how tear you apart. You may somehow find this a baseless fear, because you have no idea of that which the old man in me is capable; rest assured that it is, and thank God that he keeps it from happening. I do when I have better sense.

Can I ask? The real nature of my question is this: What if... What if Jesus is truly the God of Radical Grace. What if what you do doesn't matter one whit, in that it simply occurs because of your changing nature, and not of your choice? What if, simply put, you would, at the words of Jesus, "Go and understand what these words mean-- I desire Mercy and not sacrifice, and to have you know God, rather than your offerings." What is at stake for me if I'm wrong? I think we're both clear on that. But have you considered what you miss if you're wrong? I'm just asking. No guilt. No shame. Not from me. Because I don't believe Christians are under that stuff. I just wonder if you might be missing something, somehow. At the end of the day, that's a question only you can answer.

I'm sorry you feel the need to fix me. I must be just one of many in your life. And it must be exhausting. Until God changes one of us, know that I am asking him to help me love you more.

thus spake,

me.