God does Love us as we are

You may have heard the well meaning phrase, "God loves you as you are, but loves you too much too leave you as you are"

There is of course truth in this. God is in the business of transforming us. The picture of being changed from an earth bound caterpillar into a beautiful, free to fly butterfly is very apt for the transformation process. We all know there are areas of our lives which need to be changed. Certainly if we are alive at all, we know that we want to be someone whom others love to be with, we don't want to be some pain in the neck. We know also that issues of selfishness, pride, arrogance can keep us from developing and living in healthy communities for which were were made.

He doesn't bring about this transformation through a list of does and don'ts, must and oughts. As we get to know him it is his love which leads us to turn in a different direction, to want to change as his Holy Spirit enables us. I heard someone say recently, guilt, fear, anxiety and shame, do not bring healing or life to anyone. That's why at the heart of the Good News, is God's deep love, mercy, grace, and longing for us to come back home to him.

Returning to our first phrase. I believe that it makes sense if all the above is understood. All of us need to be transformed to be fully human and fully alive.

However this phrase also becomes negative, and condescending when used against gay people. The assumption is, if you are gay or consider yourself homosexual, then God can't leave you like that! The reality is he does! And there are many out there who are gay,AND find themselves being transformed into his likeness.Gay and Christian do not have to be opposites. Our fundamental identity is to be a child of God.

If you are struggling with shame, because of what others have said or spoken over you, take time to hear how God sees you. You were made in his image, you are loved and accepted as you are, in all your selfishness and shadows. Receive that, and rest there for a while.