How exciting to find out my father was right!  (Seriously, I never doubted that statement. Lol ) During my growing up years, my dad would tell us that our ancestors were directly related to the Pilgrims; our family having come over on the Mayflower.  Having joined Ancestry.com, I have indeed traced my lineage to the Mayflower and corroborated that fact. Interestingly, I have found several pastors on both sides of the family lineage, a sheriff and recently Mennonites. What?  This was news to me. Let’s see what do I know, they drive horse and buggies, wear long dresses, and believe in Jesus. In other words, I don’t know very much about this particular group, at all. Here’s research information:

Mennonites: “…practice strong church discipline in their congregations and live simple, honest, loving lives in emulation of the earliest Christians. As summarized by the Dordrecht Confession of 1632, Mennonite theological principles stress the direct influence of the Holy Spirit on the heart of the believer and the importance of the Bible, with its message of salvation through the mystical experience of Christ’s presence in the heart.”

Are there perhaps religious groups and or organizations that you “judge” without knowing all the facts or learning about them? In the midst of the 2020 pandemic, we are also now witnessing mega-racism, riots, looting, and marching protestors.  Are there facts and group information you may not know? Are you a sideline judge? What you need to remember most is God loves YOU unconditionally, as well as all of His children. Sins can be forgiven.  Poor choices can be resolved.  Pray earnestly for those who are struggling, defiant, mislead, suffering, and those in leadership and decision-making positions.  God is in control.  Lean into Him for we are made in His image and as children of God may shadow under His wings of protection. What an awesome lineage!  How blessed am I to be from the family of Pilgrims and most importantly the family of God!

Jill