Have The Courage To Stand Out
Society pressures us to conform. But Christians are called to be different — to stand firm in objective truth.
We are witnessing a chaotic phenomenon I would describe as a kind of brainwashing — where right is deemed wrong, and wrong is considered right. (This is part of the larger battle described in Kingdom of Heaven vs Kingdom of Earth.) There is immense pressure all around us; but as Christians, we must keep our focus on pleasing God. As followers and disciples of Christ (see A Call to Discipleship), we are called to embrace our differences, not to fear them. If we do not set our sights on the target, we will inevitably miss it.
Do Not Conform to the World
When Paul wrote to the Romans, he gave us a charge that still cuts through the noise of every age:
Romans 12:1–2Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — His good, pleasing and perfect will.
Our priority should be to please God rather than to conform to human expectations. I have noticed how easily we become entangled in trends; many are misled in their efforts to satisfy others. But trends are temporary — people swiftly move on to the next craze. It is essential that we listen to God first, allowing our daily lives to be anchored in the Lord.
Guarding the Home
Consider this: would you tolerate a stranger living in your home and speaking to your children? Yet many allow the television to do just that, with children absorbing harmful messages. By the time a child reaches high school, religious formation is often minimal.
Turn off the screen and instill Christian values in your children, nurturing those teachings within them. The family that prays together stays together. Prayer is vital — for Jesus reminded us that no one can serve two masters; we will love one and despise the other.
Standing Firm in Objective Truth
It takes courage to be a Christian and to resist following the crowd; instead, we are called to become leaders, standing firm in what is right. Some argue that truth is subjective — that what is good for one may not be good for another. This is nonsense! Truth is God. This truth existed before creation and will remain after it. (Standing on it is also how we find the purpose God has for us — see Purpose in Life.)
Our eyes must remain fixed on Christ. Remember, Peter walked on water as long as he kept his eyes on the Lord; he began to sink only when he focused on himself rather than on the Savior.
Dare to Be Different
Friends, dare to be different and embrace the person God made you to be. He created only one you in all the world, and that is a remarkable gift. Take your stand, keep your eyes on Christ, and have the courage to stand out.
Chorbishop Don Sawyer — known warmly as Abouna Don — has spent a lifetime teaching the faith. His gift is making the rich tradition of the Church feel like a conversation across the kitchen table.
