What identifies us as Christian?
What identifies us as being a Christian?
Two questions that are closely related but distinct and independent.  One question, the first, speaks to the nature of our actions as in keeping with what Christ would expect of us.  The second question speaks of our actions as a people of faith as to the church with which we affiliate and the worship in which we participate.  Again, two questions, quite similar, and yet, quite specific.  I admit to these questions, as stated, may well be "splitting hairs," but it is for a good reason I share with you this week.

The distinctions made between the two questions came to the attention of a world wide audience.  Pope Francis spoke out against a particular presidential candidate who claimed he'd build a wall that would run the length between our country and Mexico.  The pontiff said, "building walls and not bridges, such action is not Christian."   Since then, the airwaves have been red hot with conversation, the breaking down of the statements of both individuals and a dissection the nuances of the actions of a Christian and being Christian.

The statement by the pope is vital for us, for all Christians and if I may say so, for all people who value ethics, morals and the just treatment of all people the world over. 

What identifies us as Christian should emulate what Jesus Himself.  Are our actions and responses to the day to day circumstances that come our way in keeping with what Jesus has instructed us?  Do we ignore someone walking toward us because we just don't want to bother spending time with them?  Do we hold a grudge against someone because it's easier than having that difficult conversation to clear the air which hopefully leads to a reconciliation between the two parties?  Are we committed to making a difference in society or do we "sit on the sidelines" and let others do the work for us?  Are we vocal only to hear ourselves speak or are the words we speaks followed up and supported with action?  Hey, here's a simple one...are we engaged in the activities, events and life of our own church?

My sisters and brothers, being a Christian is more than 'going to church' to fulfill an obligation.  Being a Christian requires of us our full and lasting attention.  It is an intentional and direct giving ourselves over to Christ, to serve Him and thought, word and deed.  Being Christian requires more of us than saying it.  Being Christian means our actions, like helping to build bridges and tearing down walls that divide, should clearly identify us.  This holds true to anyone who says they are Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Jewish...their actions should embody the teachings of the Creator, the Great Spirit, Yahweh, Allah.  We are the Divine One's children and as such, we are responsible for the care and protection of one another, of this earth which is entrusted to us and for creating a clean and safe world for those who are to follow us. 

Strange bedfellows, faith and politics.  This is the world in which we live.  Then again, we are challenged to uphold the rights of all God's people.  Whether we worship in a mosque, a temple, a shrine, a church or a tent stretched out in a desert spot, God is present, alive and hears what we are saying and can see what we are doing.  Let's make sure, my friends and loved ones, we live up to the mandate of serving our sisters and brothers as we would want others to treat us.

Amen.