Christian Acts or Not???

I recently had the opportunity to celebrate a friend's birthday with a night out to a "lounge". Little did I know that this "lounge" used to be the place of a very popular nightclub during my undergraduate years. When accepting the invitation, I did not know what the venue entailed until arrival. I have to say, it was somewhat of a surprise to see my old "stomping ground" again (the place was all dressed up with a new name and décor)!

I must admit, I had a great time dancing and hanging out with everyone. Flashbacks of those undergraduate, coming-of-age party nights flashed in my mind. Really, were those times so long ago???

I guess the times were so long ago to remember, but not long enough to forget my Christian status. Yes, I gave my life to the Lord during the in-between years of time passing by. So did this night out mean I was in the wrong place? Or was my heart in the right place by being there to enjoy this time with a very good friend?

Hmm, I pondered these thoughts at some point during the night, especially when I was labeled the "religious" one by others in the group; I, for one, have never seen myself as religious but as someone who truly loves the Lord. So to receive this label was somewhat of an understatement because Christians believe that Jesus died for our sins. So in reality, wasn't I surrounded by many other Christians within this group??? How did I stand out?

In retrospect, I think my life is an example of what God would want to see. True, I was at this gathering, but was still seen as "different". Not that this was a bad thing; I just know that daily I attempt to reflect the life He wants for me.

So what does this mean for those who see their Christian walk in another light? Maybe to them they are religious, but Christian. I guess I have always seen being "religious" as action only: go to church, carry the Bible, be nice, act good, etc., with no real feeling behind the acts. But being Christian is talking the talk and walking the walk. So maybe this was the reason some saw my presence there not commonplace, as when others see or hear about me it is usually associated with church.

In the end, we will all be judged by our actions alone; not by what others think. I do believe that my non-Christian acts of long ago have brought me to my Christian life now. Without the acts of my past, I would not be where I am today.

This night out was more than a birthday celebration; it was a reflection of growth and maturity. More importantly, a reminder that one cannot go back and undo the past, however, one can have various moments that show even Christians started somewhere that others will view as not religious or Christian.

Maybe we all need a night out from time-to-time. It seems to clear the mind!!