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Letters June 18, 2007 Going into Week 3 of Summer Vacation—and let’s just say there hasn’t been much “vacation” in this summer so far. My favorite things so far this summer have been Shakespeare in the Park, and attending a Jonny Lang concert last Thursday so I can’t really complain seeing it is only going into the 3rd week with The Kid.
We have a fair amount of letters this week, so enjoy the reading—but don’t forget to send us your articles, devotions, and testimonies, as we depend on you to keep the ministry going.
Dear Editor,
As of late, my first (and often only) stop on ninetyandnine is the letters section. This week, as always, I popped in, only to find an arrogant tirade from an anonymous person bashing the current state of the UPC. I’m not saying that the church is perfect; I’ve been known to get myself in trouble for saying too much out of turn. But I’m bothered for several reasons by this article.
First of all, it’s one thing to speak out against the UPC, but to blanket every member of the organization with one generalization is a bit much. Further, to do so from behind a shroud of anonymity reeks of shallowness and insecurity.
That being said, I marveled at the double-standards and the inconsistent positions that the author exhibited in his philippic. First, he condemns the dress and display of our Apostolic ladies, then he cites scripture, saying that, while we look on the outward appearance, God looks at the heart. It seems to me that our anonymous friend should do a little heart-looking himself.
This begs the question: why is it such an abhorrent sin to be fashionable? I work in a retail environment, and I recently observed a clearly “Pentecostal” woman (you know, a Pennie—big hair; a long, black dress that she probably bought out of Amish Woman’s Monthly; flat shoes; and a sour look on her face). I didn’t even bother to greet her and identify myself as a fellow believer, because I’d hate for everyone I worked with to think that “that” is what my faith was all about. Holiness is an inward condition manifested outwardly. Anonymous’ focus on such a shallow definition of holiness or modesty is quite disheartening.
In ending his tirade, Anonymous tells us that we should treat everyone with love, and not judge anyone. It seems that Anonymous should practice a bit of what he preaches. If we shouldn’t judge the world, by the same token, we shouldn’t judge each other.
My question to Anonymous is this: “What is real religion?” James says that it’s to visit the disadvantaged during their distress, and to remain without sin. I wonder when the last time was that Anonymous fed the poor, or witnessed to a drunk, homeless man on the street, or reached out with affection and concern for someone broken from a life of sin. Maybe Anonymous should focus less on everyone else, and figure out how he can become a little bit more like Christ.
BTW, this isn’t to say in any way that I do enough of any of the things that a true Christian should do. I’m just bothered by someone else taking such a hard line at my brothers and sisters in Christ.
Brad Titus, Indiana
Re: “Puppet Tour 2007”
What a delightful article! I’m so glad to see the photos and read of your adventures. (Most every tour I’ve ever heard about has at least one tale of a breakdown—sigh! I think it’s part of standard tour itinerary.) But most outstanding to me was the report of the pastor who was so moved by the prayers of the children that he made new commitments for the church in that direction.
Although you have plenty of wonderful memories and did a lot of good wherever you traveled, anytime you can affect someone who has the ability to affect others on a broader scale, you’ve extended your reach and theirs. That’s spiritual synergy!
There are many souls who will be glad you took the time to come their way. As they look back, they’ll see that this was a life changing year for them. Jesus bless each one of you!”
Marjorie Kinnee, Michigan
Re: “Ask Andy ‘Lust’ Letter”
Amen! Thanks Alex—you said it perfectly. I think it’s so important to be aware when we are being influenced by secular, worldly culture. It’s so subtle and yet so pervasive! Girls don’t realize that they would be appalled if they realized exactly whose attention they were catching! It’s not always the “hot” guy, but often that of someone with a perverted mind. Do you really want someone like that looking at your body? Food for thought.
Ann Ahrens, Missouri
Re: “Soul vs. Symphony: A Holy-Roller Girl in a High-Class World”
Thank you for reminding us that regardless of musical genre, language, or surroundings it is possible to worship our “King of Kings” and “Lord of Lords.”
Mel Carrillo, California
Re: “The Sad Truth About Visiting Apostolic Church”
Just wanted to say “Thank you” for this article! I have visited churches in our organization where these things have happened to me. Being familiar with the Apostolic church and as a part of the “family,” I am more apt to forgive some of these things, but how overwhelming it must be for a single visitor or a family visiting.
Also, if you are not seeing many visitors, it may be time to see if any of these situations are happening at your church and educate your regulars on good “customer service.” We wouldn’t go back to a dirty or unfriendly restaurant.
Thanks so much for reminding me what it’s like from a guest’s point of view. I will strive to make our guests feel at home and feel welcome to coming back. I’ve been to several churches in our organization who were excellent at showing the love of Christ and showing His style of “customer service” as if He were a visitor.
Daniel Hillyard, North Carolina
Re: “Lee Ann”
One more duct tape site for Lee Ann—these things just find me for some reason.
Paul North, Texas
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© 2007, ninetyandnine.com
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