Overwhelmed by His Love

Have you ever been in that awkward situation where you overhear a stranger talking about a certain group of people... and you happen to be a part of that group? It happened to me today.

I went out for lunch, to take a break after a long and exciting morning. At school, I talked to three classes about my experience in America. We talked about life, culture, religion, and how we often have misconceptions about other places. As I sipped my tea, I overheard a group talking about America-- mostly about how American television is corrupting their kids. I couldn't pass up such an opportunity. So, I turned round, and said, 'sorry, I couldn't help overhearing...' 

From the first word I said, they could tell I was an American. The accent is apparently quite obvious. I then attempted to explain that we all have misconceptions about places we've never been too-- I certainly had them about England. We were able to agree that there are good and bad things about both England and America, and that you can't get the full picture just by watching tv or reading newspapers.

I had a great discussion with my dad today as well. We talked about the miracle that is salvation, and the power of testimony: to tell your story, to give an account, to witness. In fact, we talked about this very thing in one of the youth clubs tonight. We discussed all the different things that affect or influence our lives, and found that people--especially parents, friends, and teachers, affect us the most. I found that the people who affect my life are those I see, living and struggling, facing good times and bad, and still growing and striving to seek Christ. The people who admit their weaknesses, and therefore show God's strength in their lives. I hope to be a witness like that.

We also talked about acceptance, in the Fit For Life youth club. How God accepts us, just as He accepted the Samaritan woman. Even in her admission of sin, Christ accepted her. Similarly, he calls us to admit our mistakes and weaknesses, knowing that he has accepted us. That he loves us. I am simply overwhelmed by His love. His acceptance; that we can be a part of something bigger than ourselves... a part of a family, a group, a body. You would think there would be more chatter about this group. There certainly are misconceptions. Maybe, as we live our live openly and honestly, and in his love, maybe then people will be discussing something bigger than america at the local tea house.