God’s Checklist

Regardless of the level or variation of our belief, we are probably all guilty of assuming that God is keeping score. After all, we have all experienced a lifetime of moral judgements. We have all heard the stories of human responses to wrong-doings or good deeds.

It is only logical to assume the God operates by the same standards.

After all, the Bible is full of tales of human conflicts, including stories of the bad guys winning (at least temporarily) and the good guys suffering setbacks. Sometimes the good guys are unjustly imprisoned or harmed. Sometimes angels show up to save the day.

There are plenty of moments that could leave us in suspense. There is an intricate web of events that lead up to the big climax. There is a lot of back-and-forth, a lot of lessons learned, but we know how it all ends.

Or do we?

The problem is we are handicapped by our human experience. We are handicapped by our church experience. Over and over, we are drilled with the message that we need to confess our transgressions. We need to ask forgivness.

It sure seems like God is keeping score, and how we rank will determine our eternal fate.

What gets lost in the process is the basics of Christianity.

Once we strip away all the trappings of “religion” that mankind has adorned the foundation of Christianity with, we may discover the fundamental truth that has gotten lost in the clutter of human history.

Perhaps God doesn’t count the number or magnitude of sins as much as He merely recognizes the “yes” or “no” of our sinful nature. And since none of us can claim the status of “no,” the need for forgiveness is pretty obvious.

The ultimate error of our ways is falling back into the belief that the degree of our sin determines the degree of our fate. Perhaps we need to only recognize that God is “love,” and anything we do or think that is contrary to love puts us firmly on the wrong side of the ledger.

Perhaps – just perhaps – it is that simple.

 

 

 

Genesis – True or Truth?

There are probably few parts of the Bible that are more familiar than the beginning passages in the book of Genesis. There are also few parts of the Bible that are harder to believe than those same passages.

Gone are the days of superstitious beliefs. Today, we judge the stories of the Bible with the tools of current technology and education. We are confronted with an understanding of science that tells us that the earth, and the animal and vegetable inhabitants evolved over the course of millions of years – not seven days as the Bible would suggest.

We are faced with conflicting elements that even the staunchest believers would struggle to justify.

After eating that infamous apple, Adam and Eve realized they were naked and hid from God, who they heard walking through the garden. We can’t help but wonder why God would choose to walk. And when He challenged the first couple with the question, “Who told you that you were naked?” we wonder again, who is the “who” that God refers to? Was it that talking snake that deceived Eve?

Before we get too much further in the narrative, we are witness to the first murder, as Cain kills his brother Abel. The aftermath of that act is that Cain is banished to the land of Nod, but not before he complains that “anyone who finds me, will kill me.” Now we have to confront the idea that there are, in fact, other humans in the world, and where did they come from?

With all these conradictions coming up within the first few pages of the book of Genesis, it woukd be reasonable to ask, “Is the Bible true?”

Perhaps that is the wrong question to ask.

Perhaps a better question would be “Is the Bible TRUTH?

Clearly, that is a difficult question to answer. Tradition suggests that Genesis (and a number of other books of the Old Testament) was written by the prophet Moses. But even that is tought to swallow. Clearly, Moses couldn’t have witnessed the first days of creation, let alone the hundreds of years of early Bible history.

Trying to justify the events of the early Bible texts is clearly a lost cause. So, perhaps we would be better served by addressing that second question – is the Bible TRUTH?

Here, we are on a much more secure footing. Once we back off from nit-picking the debatable details of who-wrote-what-and-when — we are free to see the answe to that more important question.

The Bible may, in fact, be a compilation of history, speculation, and a hodge-podge of tales passed from generation to generation over hundreds, if not thousands of years.

But the ultimate message of love, and the need for mankind to embrace the power of love stands as the answer to that second, more important question.

The Bible is ultmately “TRUTH.”

Once we recognize that, we can appreciate that all the Biblical tales serve that greater purpose of education humanity on the importance of that critical truth.

 

Let There Be Light

The opening lines of the New Testament are familiar to almost anyone who has had even the slightest introduction to the Bible. They are so familiar, that few of us bother to contemplate those lines to any degree.

In the beginning…

Right from the start, we are confronted with concepts that are much more complex than it would appear. What, for instance, is the “beginning?” That phrase would suggest the element of “time,” a concept that is confusing from the start. If God has no begining and no end, how can we define the beginning moment of creation?

Science would have us believe that the universe we inhabit came into existence at the moment of an event they call “The Big Bang.” So, what was the moment before the “big bang?” Was there even such a thing as a moment before that?

If God has no beginning and no end, can’t we say the same thing about time?

Bottom line. As human beings, we are forced to invent labels to identify elements of our existence that we cannot truely comprehend.

We describe the vast distances between the stars as “light years” – the distance light would travel over the course of a year. But, what is a “year,” but the duration of the earth’s orbit around the sun? Then, we descibe that duration in terms of days, which in turn describes a single rotation of the earth on its axis.

To confuse us further, we can read additional lines in the book of Genesis which describe God’s acts of creation day-by-day. Then we might ask – are these days the same as human experience, or did God measure time differently?

So, we may have come full circle.

Contemplating these questions can only lead to one conclusion.

The unanswered questions of our existence are all the proof we need to recognize that God does exist, and we are the products of His will, and His greatest gift to us is our perpetual striving to understand the mysteries of our existence.

In short, we might cry out to our Creator, “Let there be light.”

 

Next Stop – Infinity

From time to time, our scientific community publishes “new” information about the expanses of the universe. More often than not, it is a new appraisal of the size of the universe or the distance to some celestial object. Lately, the topic of discussion has been a question of where the universe “ends.”

Astronomers crank up their newest telescopes. Mathematicians try out their latest formulas, and NASA launches another probe into space.

In the end, we have no answers that are truly comprehendible by the average human. Yes, our scientific community may suggest that they understand, but it is probably only within the limited parameters of their own area of expertise.

The problem is that the answers that are presented are clothed in terms that most of us cannot truly appreciate or comprehend.

We measure those vast distances in terms of “light years,” but what exactly is that scale? We speak of the number of miles that light could travel in the course of a year, yet most of us could not describe or envision what a “mile” is. To further complicate the issue, we use the term “year” which is the time it takes for the earth to complete a single orbit around the sun, and we measure that time in terms of days which, in turn, is defined by a single rotation on its axis.

Whew!

So, what has that to do with our faith? The comparison is really quite similar.

Our faith depends on believing in circumstances and events that lie outside our human experiences. Our faith depends on a belief in a supreme being that we call God.

And it is accepting the concept of God that we stumble.

We struggle to believe that the single entity of God could supervise and coordinate the actions of millions of humans over the centuries. We struggle to believe that God could possibly hear and respond to millions of prayers at any moment. We struggle to believe that God could love all of humanity. We struggle to believe that God could possibly create all the stars, planets, and other heavenly bodies that we observe.

The numbers are just too overwhelming.

Science to the rescue.

As science gradually compiles the list of known objects in our universe, as science finally concedes that there is no known end of the universe, those mathematical and observational foundations of our knowledge are the proof that we need to grasp that the reality of our existence exceeds the intellectual tools of humanity.

In short, we don’t know what we don’t know, and it is that missing knowledge that is the foundation of our faith.

Next stop – infinity.

 

The Final Countdown

If there was ever any doubt in your mind, rest assured, the final countdown to the end of your days has already begun. In fact, that countdown began at the moment of your birth – perhaps even earlier.

Okay. So, what has that to do with a belief in Christianity?

In fact, it goes beyond Christianity. It has to do with God’s intent for the world we inhabit. While we may struggle to comprehend the mind of God, this particular puzzle may be easier to solve.

There’s only so much room on this planet.

Physical death does not mean the spirit expires as well.

While we may not be able to fully understand God’s plan for this world, we can understand that all living things have the ability to reproduce. Given that concept and, understanding the age of the earth, it is clear that the earth would be unable to sustain an unlimited population of life forms.

Perhaps our maker designed our world to allow for an unlimited number of life forms to have an earthly experience. In that case, God would have planned for a cycle of life that allowed opportunities for that unlimited number of life forms over a period of time.

In other words, God would have created a life-death cycle that achieved that purpose.

Well, that sounds good in theory, but what about the pain and grief associated with the death of a loved one? What about the fear of death that we all experience in our lives?

Once again, we are confronted with the puzzle of trying to understand the reasons and motives of a supreme being who knows all. And once again, we struggle to meld our logic, our experiences, and our Biblical knowledge.

In our contemporary age, we are blessed to have access to numerous accounts of those who have experienced death and returned to life as we know it. And perhaps it is in those accounts that we will find the answers. The most common element of those accounts is the revelation that those who passed experienced a feeling of overwhelming love and peace.

Perhaps God allows us to experience the fear, pain, and grief associated with death as a means of contrast to that joy of peace and love. Perhaps the contrast between the pain associated with death and the infinite joy of the existence beyond death could be compared to a mosquito bite – a minor sting followed by a diminishing itch.

Yes, we are all experiencing that final countdown, but we can embrace that final experience by recognizing that much more, and wonderous experiences lie beyond death’s door. That’s not to say we should rush to that moment, but that we should accept it as a natural and necessary stage in our existence.

 

Time Travels

Since Time, an elusive concept that governs our lives, is a fundamental aspect of human ancient civilizations, humans have strived to understand and measure time in various ways. From the sundials of ancient Egypt to the atomic clocks of the modern era, the measurement of time has evolved, enabling us to synchronize our activities and navigate the world around us.

Within the vast expanse of the cosmos, scientists rely on celestial events and phenomena to measure time. One such celestial clock is the rotation of planets and stars. For instance, the rotation of Earth on its axis provides the basis for our familiar 24-hour day. Likewise, the orbit of the earth around the sun defines a year.

To conceptualize and convey the vastness of cosmic time, scientists often use cosmic calendars. These calendars compress the entire history of the universe into a more relatable timeframe. For instance, if the entire lifespan of the universe were represented as one year, then human civilization would occupy just a few seconds.

When it comes to describing the vast distances of the cosmos, we redefine those distances in terms of “light years” – effectively trading physical measurements for a measure of the number of earthly orbits.

Science attempts to understand the age of the universe by calculating time in terms of years – using that earthly orbital standard when the beginning point was before the earth even existed.

Confused yet?

None of these concepts addresses the fundamental and unanswerable question – “what is time?” More importantly, how does our understanding of time impact our understanding of the nature of God and the universe?

The Bible and our human interpretation of its contents only adds to our confusion. At the same time, that confusion serves to show us that the universe and our very existence depends on the vast and mysterious volume of information that separates us from our Creator.

If nothing else, the mindboggling and complex efforts to understand time reminds us that God exists in a form that we cannot begin to understand, and we are left with the realization that we must “take it on faith,” because we are ill-equipped to understand that which we have no language to describe.

 

Consider the Source

Throughout history, stories of miraculous events have captivated and intrigued humankind. From religious texts to personal accounts, miracles have been central to our understanding of the extraordinary and the divine.

Perception plays a pivotal role in our understanding of miracles. The same event can be interpreted as miraculous by one person and dismissed as mere chance by another. Our preconceived notions, biases, and personal experiences shape our perception of what constitutes a miracle. Therefore, miracles become deeply personal and subjective, making it challenging to establish a universally accepted definition or explanation.

Faith plays a crucial role in the belief and experience of miracles. For many, miracles are seen as acts of divine intervention, bolstering religious convictions and affirming the existence of a higher power. Throughout history, numerous religious traditions have recorded miraculous events that have shaped the beliefs and practices of their followers.

A miracle can be defined as an event that transcends the natural laws of the universe, often attributed to a divine or supernatural force. It is an extraordinary occurrence that defies logical explanation and astounds those who witness it. Miracles are commonly associated with religious or spiritual contexts, but they can also be perceived as remarkable happenings in everyday life.

While skepticism persists, those who have experienced or witnessed miracles often describe a profound sense of awe and connection to something greater than themselves. These personal encounters can deepen faith and provide solace during challenging times, offering a renewed sense of hope and purpose.

Miracles often involve unexplained phenomena that challenge our understanding of the world. Medical miracles, for instance, encompass spontaneous healings, recoveries against all odds, or unexplainable remissions. While science strives to unravel the mysteries of the human body, there are cases where inexplicable recoveries have occurred, leading some to attribute them to a higher power.

Similarly, extraordinary occurrences in nature, such as miraculous survival stories during natural disasters or encounters with seemingly impossible odds, leave us questioning the limits of human resilience and the interconnectedness of life – or, the possibility of divine intervention.

The reality of miracles remains a subject of debate and individual interpretation. Whether perceived as divine interventions, unexplained phenomena, or extraordinary coincidences, miracles continue to captivate our imagination and challenge our understanding of the world. They invite us to consider the vast possibilities that lie beyond our comprehension, reminding us of the profound beauty and mystery that permeate our existence. In the end, the reality of miracles may ultimately reside in our ability to open our hearts and minds to the extraordinary potential that surrounds us every day.

Faced with our inability to explain miraculous events, it is only logical to consider the source.

I believe in Angels

Throughout history, mankind has been fascinated by the existence of celestial beings known as angels. Often depicted as ethereal and benevolent entities, angels have captivated the imagination of cultures across the globe. While the belief in angels is deeply rooted in religious and spiritual traditions, there are intriguing accounts and alleged evidence that suggest their presence on Earth. In this article, we will explore some of the compelling indications that hint at the existence of angels among us.

Numerous testimonies exist of individuals who claim to have encountered angels. These experiences often describe a profound sense of peace, divine intervention, and inexplicable occurrences. Whether it is a stranger appearing out of nowhere to offer assistance during a dire situation or a miraculous healing that defies medical explanation, these encounters leave individuals convinced that they have interacted with angelic beings.

Many stories throughout history attribute instances of divine intervention to the presence of angels. Accounts of people being miraculously saved from accidents, natural disasters, or life-threatening situations have frequently emerged. Survivors often report feeling an inexplicable force guiding them to safety, leading them to believe that angels had intervened to protect them.

Certain phenomena cannot be easily explained by conventional means, leading some to speculate about the involvement of angelic forces. For instance, there are instances of mysterious lights or ethereal apparitions appearing during times of distress or near holy sites. These manifestations often bring solace and inspire awe, suggesting the presence of something beyond the realm of human understanding.

Throughout history, various artifacts and symbols have been associated with angelic presence. Relics such as feathers, which are commonly believed to be left behind by angels, have been discovered in places of worship and during moments of personal significance. These artifacts are often seen as physical manifestations of angelic visitation, reinforcing the belief in their existence. Many people claim to have experienced uncanny synchronicities or moments of divine guidance that they attribute to angelic influence. These experiences often involve a series of events or signs that lead individuals to make important life choices or find comfort during challenging times. The intricacy and precision of these occurrences have led individuals to believe that angels are orchestrating these synchronicities.

Religious texts from various traditions often depict angels as messengers and guardians. These writings, such as the Bible, Quran, and ancient scriptures, provide detailed accounts of angelic encounters and their interactions with humans. For believers, these texts serve as substantial evidence of angelic presence and their role in guiding humanity.

While the existence of angels on Earth remains a matter of faith and personal belief, the testimonies, encounters, and unexplained phenomena described by individuals across cultures and throughout history provide compelling evidence that suggests their existence. Whether as divine protectors, comforting guides, or celestial messengers, the enigmatic presence of angels continues to inspire wonder and fuel the human imagination. Ultimately, the evidence of angels on Earth lies in the hearts and experiences of those who believe in their existence, perpetuating the age-old fascination with these celestial beings.

Return Visits


From time to time, the topic of reincarnation comes up. As a rule, the Christian community doesn’t buy it, since the Bible doesn’t promote such an idea.

Is there any evidence for this idea? Perhaps the answer can be discovered in an old expression – “out of the mouths of babes.”

Many of us have had the experience of witnessing our young children seeming to be engaged in a conversation or interaction with an “invisible” companion. Most likely, we wrote it off as a child’s imagination and gave it little thought other than amusement.

What if we missed an important clue?

Today’s technology has given us access to more evidence than in years past. Recently, I encountered an internet article that described a number of incidents where the actions of a young child suggested hidden truths about the travels of a soul through time.

Several of these stories were about comments or recollections of a child who had no logical reason for knowing what they expressed – at least in terms of our common understanding. One child commented that she fell asleep in the water “under the ducks” and then awoke with a new mommy. Another child commented on a car he recognized as identical to the one where he was killed.

Several children recognized and correctly identified pictures of people who had died long before the child was born or described family relationships where the child was the ancestor of their current parent.

The fact that these children are able to describe persons or events that existed long before their current lifetime is a strong indication that there is more to our existence than we are capable of grasping with our accepted beliefs.

We humans are guilty of making judgments based on a set of beliefs inherited over time. That is especially true when it comes to our spiritual beliefs such as those described in the Bible. In our arrogance, the mistake we make is to cling to the belief that concepts not specifically described in the Bible are not true. If we reflect on that idea, we must acknowledge that much of what we have learned through science is not addressed in Biblical texts.

The Bible does not discuss the size of our sun, the orbits of the planets, the speed of light, or the vastness of the universe, yet these are discoveries of human science. Perhaps reincarnation is another concept that we have yet to prove, but exists nonetheless. Perhaps these childhood revelations are the proof we seek to confirm that God is the ultimate recycler, and that the “afterlife” includes multiple opportunities to learn a greater truth.

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Blessings in Small Doses

In our fast-paced and often chaotic lives, it’s easy to overlook the small blessings that surround us every day. We get caught up in our routines, chasing big dreams and grand achievements, and forget to appreciate the simple joys that come in small doses. We forget that blessings don’t always involve picking the right lottery numbers. But if we pause for a moment and take notice, we’ll find that sometimes small blessings have the power to bring immense happiness and gratitude to our lives.

One of the greatest joys of life lies in the beauty of nature. A gentle breeze on a warm summer day, the vibrant colors of blooming flowers, or the melodious chirping of birds in the early morning can fill our hearts with delight. We may be so focused on our goals that we fail to notice the beauty of the world around us. Taking a walk in the park, spending time in a garden, or simply gazing at the stars can remind us of the incredible wonders that exist in our everyday lives.

Moments of laughter and connection with loved ones are also blessings that come in small doses. A shared smile, a heartfelt conversation, or a warm hug can instantly lift our spirits and make us feel loved and cherished. These moments of connection remind us of the importance of relationships and the joy that comes from human connection. Whether it’s a phone call with a friend or a shared meal with family, these small doses of love and companionship can bring immense happiness.

Finding joy in the present moment is another small blessing that we often overlook. We spend so much time dwelling on the past or worrying about the future that we forget to appreciate the beauty of the present. Engaging in mindfulness practices such as meditation or simply taking a few deep breaths can help us become more present and attuned to the small wonders of life. The taste of a delicious meal, the warmth of a cozy blanket, or the sound of a loved one’s voice.

Perhaps the greatest blessing is merely the fact that we wake each morning, blessed with the opportunity to experience another day of life.

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