Posted: Mar 17, 08 1:24am

Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, this past week, denounced inflammatory remarks from his pastor. Although I am not supporting any particular candidate at this moment, I have to say it is time for Christians to speak out against the church leaders that have turned us away from our Savior and have brought us into the bondage of religiosity which Jesus was sent to set us free from. Never forget the Pharisees and Scribes, but do not give then a place of honor.

I live in my glass house. I don't throw stones. Those who (I am grateful for) have spent a few minutes with me long enough to know that. I am not only encased and prevented from throwing at but I also can view those without who have been sorely wounded by the "righteous" who have thrown stones at them and wounded .

I am repulsed at those that "beat the sheep" and at those who do not "feed others" with the remarkable positive energy one can be blessed with. I am sorrowed that so many cannot find the solace and uplifting support of Christ that He trod upon the earth to assure us of. I am saddened that so many believe the Bible is not God's comforting Word, but that silly men have defaced it with such abuse that it is no longer a personal love letter form God to us.

I am not wearied at all in my walk, but my heart is truly burdened for those that have been abused by religion and have now come to confuse it with God who has promised never to fail or forsake us. So why then, O Lord, do I see so many that are hurting?

God has never been silent with me, and this is the answer I received. Eze 34:7 Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of the LORD; Eze 34:10 Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require my flock at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the flock; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves any more; for I will deliver my flock from their mouth, that they may not be meat for them. Eze 34:11 For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out.

I did not read that yesterday. I read this more than a decade ago, I have committed myself to seeking out those that are bruised and battered beyond recognition. If that description suits you, know that God calls you by name and has never forgotten the atrocity hurled at you.

I personally know that trust must be earned and I do not discount that. But was it God that slapped you in the face with insult, or was it actually the sly enemy of your soul? There is a big difference and perhaps, if just for a brief moment you can let go of blaming God for being distant and cruel, perhaps you will see what God intended you to see with your spiritual eye. God is love, always has been and will be and once more, as a Gentlemen, offers you not only free will to think, but extends an olive branch to you this day. Reach out, grab hold and reason together with Him. He invites it and not only does, but wants your freedom more than you might ever imagine.

Isa 9:6 For a child has been born to us, a Son has been given to us. He shoulders responsibility and is called: Extraordinary Strategist, Mighty God, Father, Prince of Peace. (NET)

Come, without excuse, and say yes to the One who is like no other. If you have been wounded, don't fear to ask a genuine Christian to pray for you.