On the Road to Beautiful

Yes, we are all supposed to be moral. Yes, we are all supposed to live ethically. But following Christ leaves room to live our lives staying true to how we are wired—with our different convictions, gifts, passions, backgrounds and personalities.

Some are simply more fashionable than others. Some are more conservative, while others are more liberal and edgy. Some are quiet, some more bombastic. Some are tattoo-friendly, others tattoo-phobic. Some might brew their own beer, and some might turn down an offer to drink. It was the apostle Paul who said, “I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some” (1 Corinthians 9:22). Maybe as we all express ourselves in ways that are congruent with our convictions, talents, passions, personalities, etc., we are best positioned to “save some”—because those “some” can relate to us.

Truth is, it is easier to make Christianity about externals and man-made rules. Sameness makes it easier for us to tell who the “insiders” are. But Christ never wanted His followers to forfeit their distinctiveness and to be absorbed into some great cosmic oneness or sameness like a retread Eastern mysticism. Don’t settle for a synthetic Christianity that feels restrictive and holds little joy for you; instead pursue a vibrant, life-empowering journey of faith. Yes, black and white is easier. But we are called to the challenge and wonder of color.