On Innocence

  This is not the easiest post to write, I must say as I begin, because innocence is a somewhat subjective term and certain people look at innocence and see it as a negative thing. It can be very easy to see worldliness and having all sorts of experience as a good thing. Well, I may be way off in the overall direction of this post, but I believe in the cosmic scale of innocence and worldliness we should seek to tip the scale in the direction of innocence. Here are a few reasons why:

1) Too many people lose innocence too early. Jesus states in Matthew 19 that we should let the little children come to Him for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven. Children are the most innocent people around. Let's face it their belief in the Tooth Fairy, Santa Claus, and many others proves that children are innocent and vulnerable. In my opinion that's the way it should be. Children in our society lose their innocence way too early. Children shouldn't have to fear to go to school. Children shouldn't have to fear that their parents' marriage may fall apart or that they'll be abused in this world. But, the reality is that too many people lose their innocence when they shouldn't.

So, the question remains though, now what? How can we as the Body of Christ speak into the sad reality is that our world is filled with brokenness and pain? Well, the unfortunate truth is that in our current world sin will continue to infect all areas, but we as Christians can pray for those who are hurting, be faithful in giving to the church and organizations that support the broken and vulnerable, and we can as the Body of Christ be consistent in living out our faith.

2) Innocence doesn't allow you to buy into the false narrative that something/someone is greater than Jesus.
   In the Garden of Eden Adam and Eve were completely innocent. They had no idea they were naked, of the existence of evil, death, and the list can go on and on. The serpent convinced them there was something greater than their relationship and innocence with God and everything changed.

  Unfortunately, there isn't a way for us to go back to a time of total innocence. But, one thing we can do is to submit everything to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Our thoughts, actions, words, conversations, time, and checkbook should all reflect who is Lord of our life. I would encourage you to find others who will hold you accountable for your spirituality, post notes all over reminding yourself that you are a valued Child of God, and I would encourage you to be very aware of the violence and depravity that our culture glorifies. This is a tough journey and together we can go journey on it together.

3) Innocence is what we're all heading for anyway, why not and embrace it now?
  In the Kingdom of Heaven sin will officially be destroyed for good. Jesus will be everything. Our thoughts will be Jesus. Our words will reflect the glory of God, our actions will be praising and worshiping God. We will not have a thought or desire for anything or anyone else. If this is going to be the way it is for all eternity: why not begin now?