It is interesting to see that the disciples of Antioch were the first to be called Christians (or “Christ-ones”). According to the notes in my Bible, Antioch was a mix of Jews and Gentiles whose only commonality was Christ – not race, culture, or language. This is why I find it ironic that in our present time, the word “Christian” is almost a bad word even in our own culture. For some reason, “Christian” has become a word that brings about images of discrimination and/or separation. We need to do a better job of associating the word “Christian” with Christ as the one who can cross any boundary and unify any group of people regardless of race, culture, or language. We, as Americans especially, need to accept that being Christian does not necessarily mean it is the American version of Christianity! We must do a better job of understanding God’s intent and follow the Holy Spirit’s leading when it comes to building and maintaining the community of “Christ-ones”.