Christian spirituality is about a process of formation, a process in which we are formed by, and in, Christ: Christ who, sharing the form of God, assumed the form of a servant (Phil 2.6). In this process, we are transformed so that we come more and more to share the Christ nature. Spiritual formation, then, is not a process of self-cultivation by which we are helped to adjust, to conform to the values of the dominant social order. Spiritual formation is not about adjustment. It is a process of 'Christ-ening', of being clothed with Christ, and in this process we are transformed. It is a process that which involves confrontation, exploration and struggle, and its goal is maturity in Christ. Kenneth Leech, "Spirituality and pastoral care" p.5
I started reading above quoted book today. Over lunch a friend of mine commented that he can work with a co-worker for 3 years and not know if he/she is a Christian or not. He then asked, "What is a Christian today?" This friend is not a Christian and asked a sincere question (which in itself is also a powerful observation). The quote above centralizes the Christian journey on Jesus and becoming like Him in his servant capacity. It also shows that Christianity is not an adaptive enterprise - it is foolishness and upside down.
So why is it so difficult for my friend to figure out who is Christian and who is not?
