For you, Lord.

I am thankful for reader comments, even if the comments are negative and insinuate that people like me are the reason why organized religion should be avoided. If you're curious what I'm referring to, read the "Comments" from my July 22nd, 2007 post.

If you read Jeane's comment, you'll understand the rest of this post.

It's become popular nowadays to tag oneself as "spiritual". "I don't attend church; I have my own relationship with God and don't need organized religion for that relationship to be authentic. Jesus is my best friend...a much better friend than I could ever find in the church."

And you're right. He is. But He's also your Lord and Savior. He died for you.

To believe that Jesus is solely your best friend is heretical. To forget the cross and call yourself a Christian is heretical. To narrate your testimony without including the work of Christ in your life is heretical. And yes, I believe not attending church and calling yourself a Christian is heretical.

People who deny Christ because Christians are hypocrites and/or the modern church is a laughingstock clearly don't know...and never have known...Christ.

Sorry. That's tough love, but it's true.

To know Christ means that you know other Christians are hypocritical. You know they are sinners. But, what you don't understand is that Christians continue sinning even though they are Christ's. Mankind sins. Period.

The church is run by mankind. Since mankind sins, the church, as an institution, is sinful. As a Christian, although it may be difficult, you have to understand that and you must always remember that when dealing with the institution of church.

Amen.