the toenail An Important Part Of The Whole

Listening to a Christian radio station today, I heard a (non)advertisement that went something like this:

“Hello.  My name is Jane Doe and I have been a Christian for 14 years….”

Hmmm.  I didn’t hear much beyond that, as I started thinking about the measurement of “being a Christian”.

I cannot nail down an exact moment when I would say I became a Christian.  I mean, you are or you are not is the argument here.  It’s either black or white, right?  Thing is, as my faith was developing earlier, and my trust in the Lord growing, I don’t recall any a-Ha moment when I crossed from the non-believer side to that of the believer.  I can, however, recall when I had a strong desire to grow in closeness to Him, and anxious to gain the knowledge that would bring me closer to Him.  It’s more of a time period, rather than a fine point moment.  Keep in mind that before this time period, though, I was a believer.  I talked to God, prayed, although it was mostly when I needed or wanted something.  So how long have I been a Christian?

During the time period when I noticed a strong desire to learn and grow in Christ, I did eventually talk with my pastor about it, and go before the church for Baptism and to become an on-record member.  Since that time, I have made steps forward and backwards in my relationship with Christ.  I’ve never turned from Him, but when I was younger, there were plenty of times when I faltered and did not make my Father proud.  Hallelujah for his mercy and patience with me!  Today, I still falter and I’m sure my Father is displeased at times, but I do this less than I did 17 years ago.  As my relationship has grown closer to Him, I no longer slip as easily and I’ve learned to ask Him before I act, most of the times.  How long have I been a Christian?

Only God knows the exact moment – but I’m okay relying on his record, which is surely the only truth.  God knows my heart, then and now, as He does in the future.  I am His creation.  Doesn’t matter how long I’ve been a Christian.  Only that I am.