I came across this blog recently. Upon reading Gordon Atkinson's essay, "The Preacher's Story," I literally wept. He describes his journey from faithful young child in a Christian home to a place of deep doubt...
Many of you only know Christianity from bad books, TV preachers, and the people who watch them. If that were all I knew of Christianity I would celebrate my liberation from it all the days of my life.
But I was exposed early to the real stuff - Top Shelf Christianity - Deep and Old Christianity. This kind is practiced by people who work until they stink and take life in great draughts. Their hands are as rough as their hides, and they DO their faith in secret, hiding their good works in obedience to Christ. They know how to love and be loved in return. Their laughter is loud and has its roots in joy.
These Christians don’t want your money and they don’t advertise. You will only find them if you MUST find them. These are the ones who took me to Mexico as a boy and showed me pain and joy. They hid nothing from me.
There are things that you feel when you wrestle with faith and doubt that no one else can understand...at least you think no one can. But there are others who have been on a parallel journey. They have gone through the Dark Night of The Soul. They have emerged as different people. It's no less painful for you, but comforting to know.
I dare you to read "The Preacher's Story" and not be moved.
So, I cried when I read this article... Interesting...I can't wait to see you!!
Posted by: Julie | 2005.05.31 at 15:59