A FAN

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I was thinking last night how facebook and friends on facebook keep on suggesting that I become a fan of this or that. So today first thing in the morning, instead of tackling that growing pile of papers on my desk, I was looking up the meaning of the word ‘fan’ on the Internet. Here is what it says … An ardent devotee; an enthusiast (online Dictionary)…….a person with an intense, occasionally overwhelming liking and enthusiasm for something (Wiki). I refuse to become a fan. This is not to say that there is anything wrong with being a fan. Mind you, I like Obama, Garfield and the others suggested by facebook, but I actually don’t have an ardent devotion for Obama or Garfield for that matter.

I must confess though, I almost subscribed to become a fan of Jesus on facebook, but I didn’t. I really would like to become one, but if I am honest with myself, I am not a fan. Let’s look at the behaviour of a fan first. Let’s take Manchester United fans for example. You can spot Manchester fans by their red shirts, unless of course you happen to be like me who can’t tell a Barcelona Football colour from Manchester Utd- had to look up the red, just to make sure. The Bible says that if we have (wear) love, all men shall know that we are Jesus’ disciplines –Jh 13:35 (and no, I haven’t memorised Jh 13:35, I had to look up that one too). Can people here tell that I am Christian without me informing them? Am I not supposed to be the salt of the earth and a light to the world? Back to Manchester fans, they will do anything, even resort to violence to support their team. I, on the other hand, cannot recall an occasion where I have fiercely sided with God. Too many times, I have been silent when people say all religions are the same and chosen to agree that the crucifixion of Jesus was in vain. To blend in, how many times have I nodded in agreement with things that are contrary to my beliefs? Inside I am sinking, sinking …… saying sorry God but I am out of my depth. Where is the zeal that Paul talks about?

Ok, I have rumbled on for long enough. The point is, I AM a fan of Jesus, sans devotion, enthusiasm, overwhelming liking…… I am like a Manchester fan wearing his red shirt underneath another one……so he can blend in and be accepted. Something is gotta change…..right? But truth is the real fan here is God. He is a fan of me and of us all. Indeed greater love hath no man (fan) than this; that a man lay down his life for his friends.