Respectability

"Let us not...delude ourselves with easy and infantile conceptions of holiness...Mere external respectability, without deper or more positive moral values, brings discredit upon the Christian faith." Thomas Merton

We are called to live a life of holiness in 1 Peter 1:15, "But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do." Some might think that holiness refers only to how I act or speak outwardly but as Mr. Merton clearly points out, mere "respectability" brings about discredit to the Christian faith.

How many times have I refrained from saying something unkind or hurtful, or refrained from making a gesture or thought twice about acting out of frustration PURELY because I was in the company of someone who might think badly of my behavior (I'm opening Christian, mind you)? How may times have I "let it all out" when in the company of those who know me best because I don't have to put on a front? Shame on me!

My standards should apply no matter who is around because God sees me ALL the time. My view of holiness must not be focused on proving to others how good I followed all the outward steps, principles and outlook of Christianity. Rather, it must be focused on the improvement of my inward thoughts and desires.

"Create a pureheart in me Oh God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me." Psalm 51:10

Comments

TREY MORGAN said…
I quote that verse to God nearly every morning. I want a clean heart!
July 30, 2008 at 8:01 AM
Confessing Lunatic said…
My first thought when I read the quote by Thomas Merton was, "Ouch." I want a clean heart, too. Thanks for the post!
July 31, 2008 at 12:30 AM
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