Throughout history, people have treated others with unbelievable cruelty
in the name of religion. They have often done so without feelings of
remorse or guilt. Christians have fought Muslims in "holy wars" against
one another, which have been anything but holy. And within their own
ranks, so-called Christians have persecuted other Christians. Like Saul
of Tarsus before he became Christ's apostle to the Gentiles, they think
they are doing God a service when actually they are persecuting their
own Jesus (Acts 9:4).
When I first learned about the atrocities committed in the name of
religion, my boyhood confidence in the Christian faith was shaken. I
didn't dare tell my parents about my misgivings, so I began talking to
others who had strayed from the Christian path. I found that most did
so because of the violence that oftimes is found in much of the Christian
faith. I found that I could not. Then I met a Pagan much like the one I
am posting to now, she said that I must follow the true calling of my heart
if that be Christian, Muslim, Pagan, etc… So I looked within at her
suggestion and this is the answer I found:
It's not Christ's way to force His will on us. Neither should we force
our will on others. As we put God's ways into practice, we'll find we can
love those with whom we disagree. That's the difference Jesus makes!
Violence is not the message of Jesus, that is mans words. We must rise
above those men who would lead us to hate and be true to our faith,
whatever that may be.
I am hoping the author of this page will post my testimony. I
am now, and thanks to a very wise Pagan, will always follow my
heart and be a true Christian, for peace, of peace and celebrating
peace with all others regardless the face that "God" presents to
them.
NO FORCE IS GREATER THAN THE POWER OF GOD'S LOVE
IN WHATEVER FORM GOD TAKES.
Jason
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© 1997 silverphoenix@cybergal.com
