There are many religions and different doctrines that lead people who
want to learn about our Creator. Some of them are similar and only differ in
some “traditions” that might seem unimportant to some who do not mind gathering
with them to worship Him. Others think it is not proper to worship with the
ones who are different than the “ones who taught me.” I think that is a
peculiarity conflict that has to do with one’s character. I like some people
and dislike others for whichever reason. We are all different but try to get
along with one another because that is what God intended for us. Of course,
when we interact, we get to know and learn to like each other which might lead
to love, or on the contrary to detest them, but if we are decent, we respect
them. That is the world, always. Jesus resembled that in the parables of the Sowing
on Matthew 13, at the end, the ones who understand will prevail, no matter
what, and the ones who don’t will be like the tares the enemy planted.
I have heard some people, even Pastors, criticize others who, to their
understanding, are teaching “the wrong doctrine,” perhaps on TV, or on the
radio, or on books. Also, different
denominations might attack others and think they are the only ones who will be
saved. Of course there are things which
are essential to the faith. That’s the reason we have the Ten Commandments.
What we eat or not is not that important. The way we worship, whether we do it standing,
seating or kneeling isn’t either, or our singing. There are many passages in
the Word of God that explain these. You go where you feel best, and I have
heard many Pastors on the radio, on TV, in books, who have said the smartest
thing on the differences is the Respect. I have also heard many good advices
that come from the Word, even among the most controversial denominations, that
I should consider, as a Christian. Jesus Himself said to his disciples when
told what others who were not of their group did: “For he who is not against us is
for us.” (Mark 9.40)
What we are, we are going to live so others might see salvation through
us. Yet, if someone in authority reproaches something I did, my tendency is to
feel bad against him/her, then thinking it over, I could give them the benefit
of the doubt and try the “shoe” to see if it fits.
Pursue
peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the
Lord. (Hebrews 12.14)
We might all be different but for all of us the Lord sent His Son to
incarnate and be born in a manger to deliver us from the curse of sinning. Only
Jesus has done that; no one else. That is why this is the most significant time
of the year.
¡Merry Christmas and
Happy New Year!
