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Viewpoint from Michael Bird 16/04/10

 

Proud to be a Christian

 
Michael Bird : Viewpoint Sub Editor, Alter Server St Nicholas’ Church, Great Yarmouth
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There has been an abundance of news recently about ‘keeping our faith private’. The secular society of Britain, in which we live, has caused some Christians to think twice before professing their beliefs. Young generations are growing up in an age where it’s a social taboo to mention that they don’t spend their Sundays in bed or out with friends
 
I, sadly, am a part of this generation. Before I reached my late teens I would have never admitted that I prayed nightly or that I was a believer in God, Jesus Christ, or the Holy Spirit. Even when I began attending a church I kept quiet about it, as did other people my age that had been going their whole lives
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 I eventually began to open up. I was filled to the brim with the Holy Spirit and could no longer take it. In sporadic bursts I began confessing my faith to anyone that would listen. Evangelism, for me, was not only a way of ‘spreading the good word’ but, it provided physical and spiritual nourishment. It felt as if the whole world had been lifted from my shoulders. I am reminded of the words of St Christopher and The Christ Child as St. Christopher carried him across the river... "You have put me in the greatest danger. I do not think the whole world could have been as heavy on my shoulders as you were". The child replied: "You had on your shoulders not only the whole world but Him who made it. I am Christ your king, whom you are serving by this work"
As we are told in the Bible “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matt 29:19). By serving Christ, not just by evangelism but in all aspects, the spiritual benefits are undeniable
The disciple St Peter denied Jesus three times at his trial. After 2000 years I pray, for God so loved the world, may we love him back, and be proud to be a Christian

 

Feedback:
smmithtribe@btinternet.com (Guest) 20/04/2010 23:29
Your story is inspiring and really encouraging. God says, "He who honours me, I will honour". This will be true for you as you continue to look to Him who is your inspiration and Champion. Well done