How Do We Share Christ???

I have a heavy heart today as the result of a prayer request I received from a friend on Faceboook. Being the type to find the whole story, I did some digging and found out even more than I cared to learn.

Here is the story...a "cult" group out of Topeka, Kansas was in Great Bend some time ago and were staging a "revival" and someone apparently broke a window out of their vehicle. Since then, the town had a tragedy in which a 14 year old girl was abducted and found later burned beyond recognition. This "religious" group has since stages protests in Great Bend, saying that God is paying them back for the way they treated "the messenger of God".

One of my problems is this...were we called to go around spouting our goodness and putting others down? Are we to tell others that "God Hates Them"? Or are we to share the love of Christ to any and all?

I know I am making this synopsis of events rather short. If you would like to delve deeper into the story of this "cult", you can find their site here . I have used tinyurl to recompose the address, because of its offensive nature.

My question to you is this...is it any wonder we have such a hard time reaching the lost when others are out there sharing hate in the name of God and saying "God Hates..."? What can you and I do to make a difference today in the life of someone who needs us??? I guarantee one thing...hitting them with artillery filled with hate is not it!!!

And, my final thought hinges upon this group, founded by Fred Phelps being listed as a "Baptist" church group. I remember back to a quote my dad has used most of my life. Someone asked him once what he would be if he wasn't a Baptist...to which he replied, "Ashamed". When we see groups like this using our name and dragging it through the mud, that shames me. Because, outsiders just see the name and think that's what being a Baptist is all about. That's why the religion is less a part of significance as the relationship with Christ.

And the final thought I have is for Christians who come in contact with these hate-mongers is found in Luke 6:27..."But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you," So, this also makes us be careful of how we deal with those who ARE doing the finger-pointing. Makes you wonder if they just might need a dose of Christ's love in their lives.

Sorry for the negativity in this post...this has really hurt my heart this morning!

Please let me know if you have a special prayer request I can word on your behalf today!!!

For more of the backstory on the Alicia DeBolt's disappearance, you can check out the following articles:
Article 1
Article 2