Nothing Against Kirk Cameron

How do you know this applicant loves Jesus?

I came across this question while I was plowing through the typical mountain of references for teens who wish to spend time serving at summer camps. While I appreciate the mode of protection, I feel these questions are pretty ridiculous. As a writer, I feel the need to explain fully the strengths, weaknesses, and subtle nuance of the human condition in these. What do you really mean by weakness? Many times I try to have fun with the answers in an attempt to make it fun for whoever is reading these – which I can assure is someone half distracted with other tasks.

Coming across this particular question is always difficult for me. Can we truly quantify such things without reverting into deeds? “They serve every weekend”, “I have never heard them curse”, “their top movies all star Kirk Cameron”, and so on. In reality, how can we ever be sure about anyone loving Jesus? There is for sure that feeling we get when we are in the company of a saint, but going about describing this is an effort comparable to nailing jello to a stained glass window.

As I grow older I am finding beauty in the many manifestations of the Spirit of God within Her people. There are sure to be trademark qualities which all are to have, but even those don’t show up in likely ways. I am often convicted of my biases in thinking how faith and Church should play out. There is truly no unhindered display besides that of Christ. Personality and sin shapes all our steps of faith. Any time in which I have a preference, I am betraying my creator.

Lord, kill our preference and bias. Create in us what you wish. May we be authentic saints.