I am sure many have come across the theory that drunkards genuinely love and look out for each other at bars. This is in comparison to Christians who, apparently, are in sharp contrast to the drunkards. They are deemed to be meaner; a case of wolves in sheep’s clothing. Christians rarely want to help out.

My observation in line with this theory is that churches have openly placed themselves in positions of negative scrutiny. For instance, the evident segregation among Christians themselves is enough to send tongues wagging. How do you have names for congregants according to the amount of money they give—such as bronze, platinum and gold?  Some even have seat allocation over the same and even offer positions in accordance with one’s financial muscle. Those under privileged are trodden upon and do not matter.

And for the Pentecostals, meeting the overseer, founder or prophet is not for the poor. If they happen to be sick or troubled in any form, the best they can get from the people supposed to offer help is a request to fast and wait upon the Lord. For the big names, there is no hesitation or hindrance to meeting ‘men of God’. Why? Because they have ‘bought’ their way to higher. Is that live? O these churches think people don’t see? Some even refuse to pray for anyone unless they commit to joining their church, pay tithe or chowinda. Nothing for free

Take the drunkards on the other hand. They buy beers for strangers just for the company and laughter. Even a friend who is out of cash that day goes home staggering on someone else bill. Drunks even go to the extent of dropping someone at a place way off their trail. They make sure one of their own gets home safe and sound. If they can’t drop him/her, they at least offer solutions. If food is bought, it is shared among all present regardless of who pays. Even a funeral of a drunk is well patronised and friends give generously towards the ceremony. They do not hesitate to help as long as they are able to, on whatever form.

Now, check the contrast. One church member will rudely scrutinise a new comer—eyeing them from top to bottom—as if they were a threat to their existence or positions. Many are judgmental of other Christians and gossips are rife. What is in alcohol that makes people live amicably and what is in ‘holiness’ that makes it impossible to co-exist? And when people do try to co-exist in churches, why should it be about survival of the richest? When will the poor get his/her time in churches comfortably without the fear of being taunted?

I am not condoning life in bars or claiming life there is by far the best. The issue here is about tolerance of one another which the bars seem to be doing good compared to the Christian sanctuaries that are segregating. We see these things; hence, our talking about them. The idea is not to provide a good read, but bring changes. Can we do that please?

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