A lot of times Christians go around trying offend people – either by how radical they are or how traditional they are. The radicals offend people by holding up signs, getting piercings and listening to heavy metal – hear me, I am not saying those things are wrong nor am I saying they are always offensive as I currently do two of them. The “traditionals” offend people by holding on to the pews, keeping the walls white for the sake of “that’s the way it’s always been” or not allowing drums in the church – I’m not saying tradition is wrong either, without it nothing can be sacred. Both of these groups have their pros and cons, that is besides the point. The point is they both offend someone in a different way. And sometimes it is intentional. Sometimes they offend people in the church – let’s face it, every postmodern, “radical” wants to “stick it to the man” and flaunt their new 5/8″ gauges. Sometimes they offend people out of the church; Christians stand at the corner of the streets yelling “God hates you”. First of all God doesn’t hate anyone. Regardless of what the phrase is, someone may be getting offended in the wrong way. Someone may be getting a skewed vision of the faith, perhaps one that doesn’t line up with what Jesus tried to teach the world. Here is my real question: instead of offending people with condemning words and rebellious actions, what if we learned how to offend people by our love?

Jesus, showed the ultimate expression of love when he gave his life for humanity. Our souls were saved by love alone. Jesus’ sacrifice was unheard of and to this day remains the single greatest expression of love. There is no answer or smart comeback one could possibly say to an act of love so great. There is no theological argument or pointed finger waiting to be unleashed after a genuine act of compassion. We need to learn to speak that love to everyone around us. Our world is in war and falling to pieces. The last thing it needs is another war. Instead of talking about warfare, talk about compassion. Instead of always talking, just listen; most of all love. You have heard it said “actions speak louder than words.” Let’s try loving louder. The example we set is what will determine the salvation of the human race.

“Preach the gospel at all times; when necessary, use words.” – Francis of Assisi