Identity Theft

“Who dat?” fans of the New Orleans Saints

It’s not just 2018 America. People have always had difficulty recognizing God — or not God, as the case often is.

Take Matthew’s account of Jesus’s arrest, part of the event Christians are remembering today. Judas — apostle turned traitor — had to identify Jesus to his conspirators with a kiss of betrayal. Granted, it was nighttime. But, it’s evident that, to most in the crowd, it was unclear who Jesus was.

Nothing’s changed. Today, some take on Jesus’s name to scream or pen hate. Others use His love to excuse any behavior — no repentance required. “Who dat?” I can’t help asking when I see such shadow-warped views of Christ and Christianity. And, I’m a church lady. No wonder non-Christians are wary at best.

The Apostle John, who was also there that fateful Maundy Thursday, had a clearer, nearer view. Hear him out: “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar.” 1 John 4:20a KJV. And, “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar.” 1 John 2:4a KJV

Let’s live Christ as clearly today. The world deserves better than a “Who dat?” gospel.