Messiah's Misfits

"We're the Messiah's misfits... We live in the midst of frailties and uncertainties... when they spread rumors about us, we put in a good word for them. We are treated like garbage." (1 Corinthians 4:9-13, excerpts from MSG)

These verses remind me of some family friends who give of themselves generously. Although they have struggles, like most families do, they regularly open up their home. They donate their talent, time, energy and money. Yet they routinely face criticism. I am always shocked when others question their motives.

Christ faced criticism, so those of us who are followers of Christ should expect the same. Most of the apostles were seen as troublemakers. Heroes like Gandhi, Mother Theresa and Martin Luther were all misfits in their time. Most of the martyrs were considered rebels.

However, not every weirdo is a hero. We have to make sure that we aren't just striking out on our own path but on God's path. We are the Messiah's misfits, not just plain fools.