Having
a chat with a colleague today who shared something very
interesting. She grew up within the Anglican church, then known as the
Church of England, she attended every Sunday as was Sunday school
teacher for many years. However, over time she saw the hypocrisy and
institutional nature of the church. Not wanting to abandon God or Jesus
who she still loves dearly, she discovered the Buddhist faith to which
she now adheres.
This discussion is unfinished, but what stood out
was NOT a rejection of God, but a deep desire to stay true while the
church of man world around her failed.
Yes, it could be argued she should have persevered, or her faith was weak, etc.
But was it? Is it?
I
believe what she is sharing is a GREAT desire to be in God's
kingdom. However, the culture of the man's church demands or expects
certain things of us we just cannot swallow. And as there are few to no
real, authentic alternatives, some people look further afield.
Jesus
said when he was on earth that Gods flock was scattered and without a
shepherd. He also asks his people to share that work, both in the old
and new testaments.
What would it be like to live in a world where
people are like shepherd without a shepherd? Would Jesus see this in
the same light as he did the Pharisees and Sadducees? Is this lady
alone in her plight?
