The buzzword these days is authenticity.
Whether you're in a church or leadership or business or marketing, that's what people are talking about these days. The idea is that this generation is all about being real, authentic. If it's anything other than authentic, forget about it.
What's the big deal about authenticity? For many, especially those who identify as Christian or a part of the church, being authentic is being able to be who you are with fear of judgement. It is coming to church just as you are with whatever baggage you have, whatever hurts and misconceptions you might have, questions and doubts, you name it. It's OK not to have your stuff together.
For me, authenticity allows me to say I struggle to trust God even though I've been walking this faith journey for more than 20 years. That I struggle being a wife, often getting angry rather than giving grace. That I struggle with showing emotion because I'd rather feel physical pain instead of emotional pain.
And even as I type this post on authenticity, there's still a wall up to guard against judgement.
Just being real.
Be real with me: what do you think about authenticity and the church?
Authenticity is difficult particularly in church. That's my experience at least. I really liked your post today! I am part of the generation that's all about authenticity I suppose but my aim is to be real with my life.
ReplyDeleteIt can definitely be hard in the church, especially as a leader, which I am. People sometimes expect me to have everything together. But that couldn't be further from the truth. I have issues some people have little idea of, yet can't exactly share these issues with everyone. It's good to have a circle of folks in life that can know these things and not judge, but can walk with you, supporting you with grace and prayer.
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