While filling out a document recently, I had to reveal my profession. I wrote "Minister" in the blank. For some reason, my mind ran with that until I arrived at a very familiar question. To what degree am I a follower of Jesus because I love Jesus, and to what degree because, because I am a religious professional?
It's interesting how many people I have heard over the years, when contrasting themselves to me, have used the term "amateur Christian" to refer to themselves. It has not been a great number, but I have heard it about a dozen or more times - just enough so that it has stuck with me. I like that as a title.
The word amateur comes from a Latin word that means "lover." So an Amateur Christian is one one who is a follower of Jesus precisely because they love Jesus.
So if you are feeling like you may not know as much as a professional Christian, or a more seasoned believer who seems to know better why they believe and follow, be encouraged. As an amateur Christian - one following out of love - you are on really, really solid ground.
My challenge is to continue to be a professional clergy person, but to always maintain my amateur status as a follower of Jesus.
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