Christianity has always been weird. It is different than the way most people act and live. That’s why Jesus could refer to his followers as “salt and light” in Matthew 5:13-16. We are not called to be like everyone around us. We are different.
When the world complains about being forced to go one mile, Christians go two (Matthew 5:38-48).
When others retaliate and demand revenge, Christians turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39).
When our culture seeks security and satisfaction in possessions, Christians invest in a different kingdom (Matthew 6:25-33).
When most people love the people who love them back, Christians love their enemies (Matthew 5:44).
When half of marriages end in divorce and homosexual unions are normalized, Christians view marriage as a man and wife becoming one flesh, and they fight for love even when they don’t feel like it (Matthew 19:5).
When multitudes seek greatness through power and strength, Christians find it in service (Matthew 20:26).
When many see porn and obscenity as entertainment, Christians cut off anything that can pollute the heart (Matthew 5:30).
When the crowds demand that they get what they deserve, Christians forego their rights to help others (1 Corinthians 9:19-23).
When racists discriminate, Christians teach that God is no respecter of persons (Romans 2:11).
While everybody else looks out for number one, Christians visit the orphans and the widows (James 1:27).
When people fight to be first, Christians are fine with being last (Matthew 20:27).
When society is insulted it stands up and fights back, but Christians bless in return (1 Peter 2:23).
When the average guy is proud that he’s a pretty decent person, Christians know they fall short of the standard–of perfect holiness (Matthew 5:48).
When it seems like everyone is ignoring God and his way, Christians know that the way is narrow that leads to life (Matthew 7:14).
Christianity is not the average way of life. This is nothing new. Scripture says that the world is surprised that we don’t join their way of thinking (1 Peter 4:4). We must not fall to the temptation of being like everyone around us. Let’s embrace the weird!