My New Take on Faith

I was born and raised in a church. I was dedicated to the lord by my great grandpa  He was a pastor. Both sets of grandparents went to the same church as my family did. 
I grew up in a church. I was born a few months after the church was started. I started in childcare and went to Sunday school each week and Wednesday night church. I memorized all the verses assigned to me. I could recite the books of the bible on command. I went to all the events thrown by the church. I grew up with the best Children’s Church teacher. EVER. I think that’s where I learned the most about God. Even as I grew and found the lessons childish, thinking I was too good for them. I learned so many lessons I wouldn’t realize the meaning of
until years later. This woman, she showed all the children so much love - no matter how odd or difficult a child was. God’s love shined through her. That’s what I’ve held on to. 
While I grew up thinking you can’t have sex before you’re married, you shouldn’t be divorced, your parents’ faith isn’t your own, don’t lie, don’t listen to bad music, don’t watch TV shows about magic, don’t wear shorts that are too short, be modest, be quite, don’t bring attention to yourself, never think of yourself. I could go on. 
Yes, all those things are good - sure. That’s not where faith comes from in my eyes. God isn’t going to hate you for wearing short shorts or listening to a song that isn’t about Him. 
My faith is no longer about rules. My faith is about the love I show others. The love I show my family and friends. The love I can show complete strangers in a store. 
I’m over the rules. No rule defines my love for God. I won’t go shoving God down anyone’s throat. Instead, I’ll show them the love and kindness through my words and actions.
Listen, I cuss, I drink (when I’m not pregnant). I am not the most chipper. I raise my voice at my kid. I argue with my husband and pick fights. I open my mouth when I should probably keep it shut. 
But that doesn’t change God’s love for me or the love that I have to show other human beings.
I think that the love you show others is crucial during this year. 2020 has been challenging for everyone. I've known some to get COVID, survive and be fine. I know others who have lost family members and their jobs. They have lost their source of income, their ability to put food on the table for their families. Spouces who have lost their partners. Others who have had to quit their job due to virtual learning. 
While we may watch someone struggle with their cart full of kids, or groceries they can't pay for - let's remember to help. Even in these weird, stay 6-feet away times - we still need to show each other love. You can smile at someone, and they can't tell you're smiling because of your mask. Instead say hello. Wave at the little kid sitting in the cart. Pay for the car's coffee order behind you. Make small talk with the person next to you in line. Ask the cashier how their day is going. 
A little bit of positivity can go a long way for someone. 

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