Musings in Writings

"What do contemporary people expect from Christians? They expect Christ."

Last night I heard someone quote these words from Pope John Paul II. I cannot remember the exact words, but the meaning has not changed. It struck me.

When we declare ourselves Christians, we become ambassadors of Christ. People want see that we live by the teachings of Christ whom we call God.

Now if we live our life selfishly, and with little regard for other people's feelings but call ourselves Christians, what kind of impression are we giving to our non-Christian brethren about Christianity ? How can we call ourselves Christians if we do not Love others? Christ is the Epitome of Love, how can we call ourselves followers of Christ if we do not follow His teachings on Love?

I have always been struck by the words "They know we are Christians by our Love". If we keep Christ's commandment "Love Thy Neighbour as Thyself" only then are we fit to call ourselves Christians.

Think about it... Preaching can only convince people of Christ who are willing to hear. But for people whose hearts are hardened, no amount of preaching can convince them of Christ. Unless of course they see Christ themselves! Are we Christians able to show them this Christ?

Our Duty as Christians is to be Christ for others. Be Christ-like to people we meet every day and in our daily duties. If people are able to see the love, humility, sacrifice, hope and faithin us through our daily lives, we do not even need to preach a single word, and they will come to know Christ.

Mother Theresa was a classic example of this kind of Christian. She never tells people to convert, but people were touched by her care and love for the destitute and needy. Through her life, people saw Christ and were converted. There are people who did not convert, but it doesn't matter. For they were still touched and they learned to become Christ-like for others.

Now people may say "this is too difficult for me to be like Christ. I am not that great a person. It is too idealistic!" My opinion is that what is Idealistic becomes Realistic through the Grace of God. With Prayer, Love and the Grace of God, in many little ways, we can become a Christ for others without us realising it.