Thoughts on Religion

It is often spoken. The chosen ones hear it, take it in, and become followers. It is a simple understanding that opens eyes and cleanses the soul. It is a life-changing phenomenon. A miracle. No other life or object or pursuit or pleasure exists after taking in the news. Nothing else brings everlasting joy or eternal life. It's a beauty that makes you want to give yourself entirely. It's a truth that makes you want to become a better person, lend a hand to others, and share the goodness that you've discovered to the rest of the world. It is not selfish or boastful or arrogant, but rather hopeful, loving, patient, and kind.

To accept the ultimate truth--that is the task. "What is truth?" How can you distinguish between truth and falsity? How can you answer morality questions without a main core, a reference point, a comforting start--a beginning.

I hear whispers here and there. Murmurs. Soft lips letting questions slip into the midst of strangers. One word. Three letters. "GOD." One word. So what, I say. There are many. What distinguishes a real one from all of the fake ones? What about my job, my finance, my education, my success in life, my hard work, my knowledge, my science, my abilities, my facade, my material things, my lovers, my imagination, my everything? So what. God? What is that? I built this house, I decorated it, I raised my kids, I worked double shifts, I this and I that. My life has not known a 'god' and I've been very well off.

Why are we so resistant to the good news? Why does it bug us to hear those three words; those ever-hopeful, loving and comforting words?

GOD LOVES YOU

Three powerful words in such a simple sentence: (1) God, the Creator of Heaven and Earth; the definition of love; the Holy Father; the ultimate friend. (2) Love, the strongest emotion that makes us feel like there is a meaning to our existence; the selfless act of giving oneself to another; the respect and admiration towards others; the utmost realization that you are not alone. (3) You, the chosen creation, created in God's image; the reason for salvation; the salt and light on earth.

How? Because He sent his only son --Jesus Christ-- to die on the Cross so that OUR SINS can be forgiven-- so that the path to heaven can be open for us, and so that we can become a new creation.

If this is believed, all else follows.