Lead, Follow or Get Out Of The Way

I used to think that there were two kinds of people in the world --- those who were Christian and those who were not. The Jews called anyone who weren't Jews Gentiles. Some may even classify humanity as those who have religion and those who don't.

I'm at the end of the project that I started on December 29, 2006, in which I commented on George MacDonald's "statement of faith" as it relates to my own life. The entire list of beliefs that I referenced will be collected in my next blog for preservation, since I will be removing them from the left-hand margin.

I make no apology for the fact that I have been inspired by his many teachings through his novels, sermons and poetry. He has brought into my life a refreshing approach to knowing God as who he really is, and seeing for the first time the purpose of Jesus the Christ in bringing the Good News from his heavenly Father.

What I see as the spiritual world order is quite simple. First, there is God --- one God --- no matter what name you might give him. There is also Jesus, God's son. He has always been in existence as far back as the beginning of our world --- probably even farther. God has always interacted with his creation throughout our history through prophets, signs and wonders. Even with all of that we seemed to constantly get it wrong. We particularly misunderstood his character as our father, as well as his desired relationship with us.

So he sent Jesus somewhere between B.C. and A.D our time, to teach us about his Father and to show us how to live with our brothers and sisters, and how we are to receive spiritual guidance. All of this is the good news (gospel).

Now, I realize that there are many religions in the world, many of which either don't know Christ, or, from their limited view of him, don't believe in him. No matter. If we are to leave this earthly vessel without getting it sorted out, we will have plenty of time to sort it out later. We are on a journey. The first part of our journey ends upon our death in this life. Death is but a door that we step through into a broader sensual experience --- an existence that will focus on our spiritual development, without the hindrance of physical woes.

I believe that all human creatures must go through the Son (Jesus) to reach the Father (God). The Biblical account in the Gospels reflects the earthly teaching by Jesus of heavenly things. We have enough information now to greatly enhance our journey. If we refuse to learn, or if some don't even have exposure to the truth, then Jesus will be waiting on the other side to resume (or begin) his teaching.

Here's the kicker. I could be wrong in all of this. If there is no God, then I have lived a life of joy and peace. However, I firmly believe that if there be a God, he will NOT burn me in Hell forever for getting my facts wrong. I desire to know his will --- in this life and the next. I trust in his love, rest in his care and hope for his sure guidance. He is my Father.
STEVE