Not Lukewarm

I have the privilege to be on a team for a Cursillo weekend later this month. As part of building our team and getting to know each other each week we answer a question about ourselves in regard to our faith. One week the question was “What is your favorite scripture verse and why?”

We began and I saw a pattern quickly emerge until I shared my verse. The pattern re-emerged as the other ten or so women answered the question. Each woman gave a lovely verse, filled with peace, love, dedication or seeking God in the stillness. Except me. My favorite verse is, “So, because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.” (Revelation 3:16) Why? It is my goal or guiding principle of my life to be not- lukewarm in my life, especially in my faith. Think about that verse for just a second and imagine being spit out of Jesus’ mouth. It is not a pretty picture. I do not want to be spit out, literally or figuratively, from Jesus’ mouth.

While I stand by my verse, it still made me feel un-womanly since it is such a strong sentiment. All the other verses were gentle, positively leading you to God and a deeper relationship with him. Am I afraid of Jesus and his reaction to me if I fail? No. I take comfort in his love and mercy, knowing that failure is part of my journey as is asking for forgiveness. I think this verse speaks to me because it is practical and gives me a sense of action. It compels me to live out my faith in the world in a very active way.

What is your favorite verse and why?