The Christian faith has been described as "deep enough for an elephant to swim in yet also shallow enough for a child to paddle in". In other words it is both profound and simple. If you want something profound on suffering, then read the Book of Job. If you want something beautiful and moving on love, then read 1 Corinthians 13. While these passages will stretch your mind, even a small child can understand the three simple words of Jesus Christ that lie at the very heart of the Christian faith. He said to all who will hear, "COME, FOLLOW ME".
So Christianity is essentially a journey through life in a relationship with God made possible by Jesus Christ.
Jesus wants us to follow him and he will be our friend and guide along the way. This means we are not alone in life.
And the good news is that it is a journey that does not end! Our life of faith on earth is a preparation for eternity in heaven in the presence of God.
Jesus helps us in several ways:
FIRST, Jesus loves us. He loves us with a love that could not bear to leave us estranged and distant from God. And so, out of love, he died for us on the Cross on Good Friday so we might be forgiven by God. Instead of our sins counting against us, Jesus dealt with them for us. As a result, faith in Jesus Christ, believing in his death on the Cross and resurrection from the dead, deals with our past and puts us right with God. A new relationship with God is made possible.
SECOND, Christians are given the gift of the Holy Spirit so we have God's power and presence in our lives. We can't do all we should in our own strength but God's strength comes to our aid, helps us resist temptation and gives a new desire to live for God.
THIRD, Jesus teaches us what pleases God, what does not and how to live our lives. The Bible is a record of this teaching and has great power. Start by reading one of the Gospels in the New Testament, Matthew, Mark, Luke or John. Then try reading the first eight chapters of the Book of Romans.
FOURTH, Jesus calls us into membership of his Church and so we have the benefit of the support of other Christians as we journey together through life.
In all these ways Jesus offers us new life and gives us HOPE.
Its all very exciting! And its not complicated either!
Jesus is "the way, the truth and the life" and we would love to help you find your own living faith in Jesus Christ.
Many people in "the living Church of St Mary's" have such a faith. So do come along and begin an journey of exploration that we hope will end with you saying, "Yes, Lord, I will come and follow you".
You may like to find out more about the Christian faith by visiting some websites: Christianity or about being a Christian and being part of the Anglican church - Church of England