Don't paint all Christians with the same brush 

Dear Shredder,

I have been a big fan of yours for some time now, always looking forward to Thursday to see what you have to rant about. I have noticed lately that you seem to be very “anti” Christian (“Shills!” March 29; “Tin Man walking,” April 5). I would like to point out to you that there are thousands of Christians living around the globe who have dedicated their entire lives to helping those in need. People of all faiths doing what they can when they can.

I readily agree with you that there are many people filling Sunday pews who do not always practice what they preach—but isn’t that true with just about any large group of people? If one homeless person kills somebody, does that make them all murderers? If the chief of police is a crook, does that make all cops criminals? If a pastor does something wrong, is the whole congregation to blame? The answer, of course, is a resounding “no.”

Then why is everyone so eager to bash Christians in general when a handful of them who “call” themselves Christians do not accurately represent the Christ of the Bible? People can call themselves whatever they like, but that does not necessarily mean they are what they say they are. I can call myself a dishwasher, but if I never wash any dishes, then I probably won’t have “dishpan” hands.

My point is this: Perhaps instead of attacking Christians in general, you should go after those individuals who claim to be Christian but act in an unChristlike manner. Point out the error of “their” ways and thus respect their individuality.

I am proud to call myself a Christian, not because of how wonderful I am but because of how wonderful He is. I cannot claim to always do everything right, but that is not what Christianity is all about. It is about trying to work out a relationship with the Creator of the universe and realizing how badly I need Him in my life. Striving for perfection but often falling short. He is the author and the finisher of my faith—not me.

Thank you, Shredder, for allowing me to “rant” a little. I will continue to read and, yes, maybe even enjoy your column. May God bless you and America, and China, and Pakistan, and Mexico, and Israel, etc. …