Do you ever wonder how people come to belief? I think it’s the rare individual that has the Saul kind of blinding, zapping experience. For most, they come at it intellectually, even scientifically. Having been a believer all my life, and never seriously questioning it, I have to work to understand those who need proof and evidence. But alas, we are in a post-modern, some would even say post-Christianity world.

 Agnostics and atheists still insist that belief in God is a psychological crutch. Even if it is, it sure is a powerful one! To rely on a presence, a person, a power greater than us, who also happens to be unconditionally loving, well – that’s a psychological crutch I am not too proud to lean on. Science has tried, but cannot, disprove belief and faith. There is  synthesis between science and faith. Charles Darwin is buried in Westminster Abbey, which goes to show that evolution and faith can coexist. Darwin may not have been entirely right, but neither was he entirely wrong. If we wish to embrace all of creation and humanity, we should be willing to at least listen to other theories (i.e. the Big Bang). We pursue harmony because we know that God is love. Therefore, it is instilled in us. If we are to love, listen to, learn from, and lead the “nons” and the “nones”, we should strive to do so in a way that is not off-putting.

Jesus, as God in human form sought us. Think about that. All other religions or beliefs are about us seeking God, or a “supreme intelligence, or whatever. We have all the tools, all the equipment, all the knowledge we need to change lives. Again, I encourage you to cultivate relationships. In this crazy, mixed up world, there is nothing more important than for the “nons” and “nones” to be listened to, loved, learned from, and led to the most important decision, the most important relationship they can have: with Jesus Christ. The kingdom of God will not rest until all have the opportunity to experience life and unconditional love.   

Pastor Art