I recently bought a book called, "The World As I Remember It: Through the Eyes of a Ragamuffin". It is a collection of devotionals Rich Mullins wrote between 1991 and 1996, about a year before he died in a car crash. I always loved his thought-provoking music, and I am enjoying reading his thoughts on life, love, God, Jesus Christ, etc.
I read a section the other day that bears repeating here-
"I am a Christian because I have seen the love of God lived out in the lives of people who know Him. The Word became flesh and I have encountered God in the people who have manifested (in many 'unreasonable' ways) His Presence; a Presence that is more than convincing- it is a Presence that is compelling.
"I am a Christian, not because someone explained the nuts and bolts of Christianity to me, but because there were people who were willing to be the nuts and bolts, who through their explanation of it, held it together so that I could experience it and be compelled by it to obey.
"If I be lifted up," Jesus said, "I will draw all men unto Me."
Oh, that we who follow Christ would also love like Christ! Rather than accusing sinners, and withdrawing from them, if we would be more willing to be His hands & feet, His "nuts and bolts" so to speak, we (I) would have a much more positive influence and impact on people's lives, for His kingdom.
Rob