Romans 12:2- “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” (New Living Translation)
Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain
While I don’t like it, I’ve come to accept that some people wish I would leave Jesus at home, stored away in a box. Don’t bring Jesus to work, to the dinner conversation, our weekend plans, or other. His name can present a conflict of interest to the world’s ideas, if you know what I mean.
Recently, some of my colleagues were planning an outing that would serve to unite us in fun outside of work projects. They asked ideas for the outing. One colleague suggested a dance club/strip club for our outing. I wondered if I was the only one in the room adverse to the idea of going to a strip club. I’ve never been to a strip club and am not about to start now. Besides, my dollars spent at the strip club would diminish the fact that these persons on the pole are also “created in the image and likeness of God” (Genesis 1:26), “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14) and that Jesus died on the cross to free them from the pole.
Interestingly, some of the others supported the idea and one other person would stand with me on the side of values. Steering the conversation’s trajectory, I suggested the idea of going to brunch. While some nodded their heads at my suggestion, you could tell it was like telling a child to write their book report instead of egging the neighbor’s car. 🙂
Why do people want me to change who I am? My character? I’m not a shapeshifter who has one foot in the world when it suits me and others, and then one foot in Christ only when it is appropriate and going to be well-received. The following image (borrowed from Firestarter Ablaze) conveys my thoughts exactly:
Enough said. If anyone wants to join me for orange juice, eggs and all the trimmings of brunch, please do!
Voices Against the Grain 
Right on the money. I hear many say that strip clubs have the best breakfast in town, which to me is not at all true. They sit, stare, and ogle women, which objectifies them and renders her as a toy. Even worse, is how can anyone eat with the grotesque display of carnality. “I’m not a shapeshifter who has one foot in the world when it suits me and others” was my favorite line. In that, we tend to be like chameleons, looking for ways to fit in, instead of being set apart.
Thank you for this powerful word.
Thank you Herbert for your comment. You’re also on-point re: how some Christians “tend to be like chameleons, looking for ways to fit in.” We are not to conform to this world.” Thank you Herbert for your shining example to me and others. -Nicole