America Might Be Taken Down by The Desperation of ALL Those Clamoring for Inclusion

We've all seen it before...
Someone trying to flippantly pass off the most ludicrous, backwards ideals, as something they should promote or we should (rather easily) believe!
IT'S GETTING TO BE SO EXHAUSTING!
...Exacerbated by the fact that spotting this behavior is neither complicated nor that useful for seemingly either party.
:-/ And yet it is SO DESTRUCTIVE❗

With SO MANY folks possessing such a HUGE YEARNING to be included with a certain "fraternity", sub-culture; or perceived social-economic classification (which they aspire to; feel they've "earned"; or will one day be "invited" to join,) ...they will quite desperately forfeit & willfully "sell-out" and/or compromise, their own culture's best interest; their heritage; their theology; their local community; even their morality.  And they'll covey this personal, intellectual and perhaps spiritual "sell-out", even more quickly and easily; when this opportunity involves others of different lifestyles or persuasions which they can't or don't wish to relate to!

Moreover, you'll likely witness even their own core understandings of science; along with their "God given ability" to apply critical thinking to a rather basic problem, principal, policies or situation; be freely abandoned, in order to obtain this "inclusion" & "adoption" they so desperately and ostensibly desire!

They are often struggling so hard with these fears & insecurity based conflicts; butting heads with their own personal goals & more sensible behavior & interest; that this desperation tends to often be very quickly revealed through a common dependency on the same desperate, tiresome "dog whistles" or "slogans" as it where!

These catch phrases and excuses are used almost psychically by COUNTLESS people. With each presenter believing their (not so clever) cliche, will cause us to ignore or pretending what they are doing or promoting, must have some other (presumably more sensible) hidden, "higher", motivation or clever agenda.
...it becomes rather apparent that nothing could be further from the truth when they also repeatedly avoid, comparing actual facts and/or credible resources pertaining to the topic being discussed or encouraged.
...or, once either of these are volunteered (against their will,) they try to claim "all sources are biased" and alternative/contaminated facts are therefor prevalent, so NOTHING can be trusted!
(face/palm)

These abundant "dog whistles" exhibited by those so desperately willing to trade, facts for fanfare; as well as their own character & principals, for some naively sought "inclusion"; include...
~ "you do you; I'll do me."
~ "well that's your belief; mine are different."
(despite the fact the discussion concerns proven facts or realities; be it "biblical", constitutional scientific or socially acceptable.)
~ which means you'll also here things like; "who made you the know it all?"
~ and "you think your so politically correct don't you?";
~ Or how about, you and I just don't think the same; "we are all entitled to our own opinions".
...which on its surface, certainly sounds reasonable enough...
(eye roll)
...UNLESS you're discussing something as systemically & societally necessary as treating all men, women & children equally; avoiding bigotry; condemning hate crimes; avoiding civil or foreign war and killings; admonishing and condemning those profane points made in a generalized manner about others whom you no so little about; and therefore condemning others based on piety or lack of acceptance to a life you yourself wouldn't wish for or hope to impose on those you do claim to care for and "love"!

Until these types of cowardly (perhaps jaded and also marginalized) people; within countless varied subcultures, classifications, cliques & classes of citizens across our country and our world; decide that the principles and morality and subsequent "character" which they represent, all serve as something far more important less disposable factors (either within the community and the people they live around; or especially those communities they feel they will never come in direct contact with); we will all continue to be doomed to these mundane, ridiculous, brain-dead, self-centered yet self-destructive replies, to facts, needed changes and amendments to our current Constitution and way of life❗

The "American Experience", is unfortunately riddled with lame unchecked and unaccountable indifference to others and even own own best interest!
...And our incessant, entitled, exceptionalism, represents such a truly sinful level of pride; it evidently causes us (perhaps the entire human race) to miss out on blessings we all might otherwise have experienced & enjoyed❗

The simple fact is, America might be taken down (even further) by the (cowardly) desperation of all those clamoring for inclusion.

America Might Be Taken Down by The Desperation of ALL Those Clamoring for Inclusion

Why some subcultures have shamefully mastered the art of persecution ...And why you must avoid it!

It is important to question the merit of any organization which remains relevant or inspires loyalty on the basis of persecution.

Persecution is an extremely attractive tool of manipulation, coercion and solidarity. But it is also a mindset which primarily serve emotions of fear, exclusivity and in turn requires discrimination; all while providing a constant justification for any subsequent action and attitudes defending itself might require.

The nature and conveyance of persecution is one of the simplelist to inspire and claim; given the fact, it only requires finger pointing towards any single individual or larger groups which think or ar motivated in different ways and for different reasons than the belief or group you chose to represent. In other words, as long as there are different people with different beliefs and positions, there will always be claims of persecution. Therefore it is a naturally perpetuating belief set, with no end in sight! Yet such claims serve in no way towards growing or strengthening any formal position or belief within a chosen organization or sub-culture, beyond that of fear, paranoia, and additional prejudice.

So where do feelings of persecution have their place in your own life as an American Christian, or as a person of any chosen faith or even political or social positions of allegiance?

Here is a simple test for those enthralled by the "theology of persecution":

• Does a belief or feeling of being persecuted increase your sense of empathy and sympathy for others who have gone through trials or are not just like you?
• Does a belief or feeling of being persecuted allow you to feel more love for others or less?
• Does a belief or feeling of being persecuted make you feel as if your God is smaller or greater?
• Can you describe the nature of the persecution your faith and beliefs are under while also explaining the nature of God's sovereignty?

If you're feelings of persecution don't allow you to feel a greater sense of empathy, sympathy, love, and faith in God as well as exemplify you likely belief and understanding that he is "always in control", then it holds little to no place in one's current faith or life.

To believe in something which causes you to waste energy on a feelings of fear, negativity, prejudice, contempt, righteousness and/or piety is a waste of time. To believe in something that denies God's presence, or implies God's loss of control or intention for his children and his planet, is a waste of time. To believe in something that misses the point of His redeemer, His Son, your Savior and the grace, mercy, love and forgiveness that you have been shown and taught to ALWAYS feel for EVERY living soul and creature on this planet, is a waste of time.

Is your faith increased through your current set of beliefs or do you find it challenged and potentially diminished? Are you the source of your feeling of persecution, or is God? Is fear a result of your version of faith or is it God? Are their numerous contradiction in your current version of faith or cohesion?

If persecution and pride are just a few of your many vices where related to your current version of faith and the theology you feel you are faithfully following, an examination of "your walk", your current spiritual journey, your current perspective on God, grace, atonement, Love and forgiveness might be in order.

Part II

No aspect of your faith should be inspired through the balming and fearing of others. No aspect of your faith should be strengthened by feelings of a few of being superior to others whom your are sure hold less knowledge, understanding or faith than your own merits.

Instead your faith should be centered around "the work", a.k.a the change, the improvements its makes in you. And these improvements must include humility, rather than pride. Love, rather than prejudice. Generosity, rather than reservations.

If your faith has convinced you to withdraw from certain aspects of living. Or serves in some manner to separate your group of "believers" from the rest of society, then it has lost any and all relevance or value it might have ever been afforded.

If your faith has convinced you that Science is a lie, that the tolerance or inclusions of others is a bad thing, that equal social and human rights are a privilege for a select few, that you can now distinguish clearly the sin in others lives, while resting assured that your own life amount to less sin than theirs - if any of the delusions has become not only a basis for your feelings of false persecution, but also a basis for your faith in God, then you have placed yourself in a world of very little faith and understanding. You have shrunk you God down to a level of human understanding and human limits rather than elevated him to a level beyond your own limits.

Don't be a person of such little faith... Little understanding... Little vision...

Be a person of HUGE grace... Be a person who is humbled by underserved atonement and forgiveness. Be a sinner, who understand no man or women is without sin, and no sin or amount of them are better, worse, or less than those which you have committed, ignored or sought redemption for in your own life, or the life you have yet to live.

Concern yourself in a faithful sense with one person in this world. With yourself. And work on unconditionally loving others, rather than feeling you have determined something so significant about them, that you now see fit as to whether or not they can be categorized as a person who is as deserving of God's love and Christ Grace as you are.

Such determination are not yours to make... You can only be one thing when you do so, WRONG!

Why some subcultures have shamefully mastered the art of persecution ...And why you must avoid it!

Death by Denial, or Death of Denial - your choice...

How does one find comfort in denial? Sounds like a confusing, contrived approach to life...
But we all know folks who have attempted it...

Such exhausting efforts in denying the facts and the realities around us, infiltrates so many aspects of each person's lifestyle that it literally changes who and what we are. Both externally and internally. There is ultimately no denying the impacts denial can have on those who choose to cling to it.

Be it... Religion, career, health, politics, commerce or relationships; in every way we fit to believe and interact we are presented with an ability to either accept an empirical reality or to deny that which most if not all facts would postulate as true and inherent to reality.

Admittedly, at times when I think about the time spent, the lives spent in denial, it creates so many anxieties and upheaval in my own fortitude and optimism.  For instance, on the religious front, the lengths must one go to in order to deny evolution? You literally have to ignore the nature of the gas which fuels your car, and the earth and ground which you walk on. (Case and point: http://youtu.be/vfp4Ci1b0TI) And this is often founded of course as some moral stance by those in defence of God's story of creation.

“I do not feel obliged to believe that the same God who has endowed us with sense, reason, and intellect has intended us to forgo their use.” 

― Galileo Galilei

In the mind of those who struggle with and attempt to wage such moral battles for the sake of presumed persecution by science, I think it is worth reminding them, that denying the atom exist, can not diminish the effect nor the development of an atomic bomb. But can you imagine a world where those feeling most morally accountable, also embraced the very sciences, wholeheartedly, which are and will guiding our future? If you ever wanted to render your religion irrelevant, I can't think of a better way than denying science as valid or real.  And when has the denial of facts ever served as a valid, permanent or worthwhile form of leadership, much less the stewardship of one's faith?

Additionally, the daily lies some individuals must tell themselves in order to continue eating their way to an early grave are just as astounding. You must even ignore your eventual inability to jog, to run, to sit comfortably in a seat, to fit into clothes; even those perhaps bought just months ago.  At such a point you are now beholden to a physical manifestation of denial.  Which many might think would be the easiest denial to recognize or avoid, but it is no less prevalent within our society that the type of religious and political or social forms we witness every day.

The "truth" one has to stretch even within their own mind in order to fathom and imagine everyone else in their life or this world is wrong, but that they are right, is astounding. You have to ignore any basis for functional communication. You have to adopt a notion that apologizing and repentance is a weakness, rather than a strength.

“Long experience has taught me this about the status of mankind with regard to matters requiring thought: the less people know and understand about them, the more positively they attempt to argue concerning them, while on the other hand to know and understand a multitude of things renders men cautious in passing judgment upon anything new.” 

― Galileo Galilei

The dismissive position one has to take as a Christian to find solace in prejudice and discrimination against countless sub-cultures, despite the entire purpose in Christ life, is a great example of the separatism many forms of denial can lead to. You have to reinterpret everything about the salvation Christ describes; and convince yourself it is somehow founded in the judging and condemning of others, rather than the love and grace you are to bestow.

When physical science, biology, spirituality, sociology and rationality are all areas of one's human experience a person is willing to completely ignore or dismiss, as pr when it suits them, there is not much that can be done to live a realistic, sincere, cohesive life with such a person. Nor should your days be spent in reprehension, regret or remorse over the eventual deterioration of such a destructive relationship or experience.  This deterioration after all, was by their own design, and was never an action or a choice you were offered an ability or option to prevent.

When adamant denial leads to positions of extreme isolation and/or separatist movements, only the most blatant of interventions will typically intervene effectively. And when folks find refuge in larger groups, political movements, or religious affiliations to solidify or support their denial, there is little any small scale intervention will offer or accomplish. So you are left with very few options.

"If a man is offered a fact which goes against his instincts, he will scrutinize it closely, and unless the evidence is overwhelming, he will refuse to believe it. If, on the other hand, he is offered something which affords a reason for acting in accordance to his instincts, he will accept it even on the slightest evidence. The origin of myths is explained in this way."
― Bertrand Russell

Life is too short to sit around just waiting for denial to become rational thinking. Nor is your time well spent waiting for a lack of forgiveness, waiting for the denial of evidence, the mocking of facts, the dismissing of reason, or the insecurities of those who cling to such things to give way to grace, humility, healthy love, healthy living, and a new found balance and respect for themselves and those around them.

While it is true the politics of such people may ultimately or previously have had some bearing on the shaping and misdirected leadership of this country or the city, state and even household you live or were raised in. And while it is true that family members who cling to such reprehensible tendencies of denial can make all those around you miserable; and there is little denying a miserable family can make for a miserable life. Acceptance must be found, and in essence forgiveness must be offered.

To not accept that these bastions of ignorance and habits of lying to one's self exist, would be no better than the denial such people depend on. And to not forgive why a person chooses to deny realities and cling deception and/or an avoidance or acceptance and facts, is not prudent. Forgiveness must be offered, because your life must go on and be functional, actively and usefully lived.

You can't function when you find yourself trapped in the misery of another's denial! You can't function when you are a slave to the burdens their limitation are determined to create and present. You must represent a freedom, and an awakening, and an honesty they are not yet (and perhaps never will be) willing to depend on.

You must get far away from a lifestyle and manifestation of daily lies, and their subsequent daily struggles and inherent negativity; and instead intentionally walk towards habits and promoters of reasoning, critical thinking, communication, acceptance, discovery and the most astute interpretation of current, past and future events your own experience (and those shared by others,) has provided you thus far.

Denying realities for the sake of enabling other's denials is an utter waste of your own experiences and time spent living. Coddling the hatred, the judgments, the fear and disdain so many around us may exude as they deny the truth, only serve to give purpose to such ignorance. We were not born on this earth to serve as pawns and followers of such frail, ridiculous and insecure thinking. Our lives all have a much greater opportunity.

Image Link: http://goo.gl/7ELqf

(Analogy warning! ~next three paragraphs~ ) ;-)
When you finally realize, after perhaps many embarrassing years, that you have served as an "audience member" to the wrong "show"; perhaps a very "poor performance" or performer; a 1 out of 4 star, production... When this realization finally hits you, you must quickly learn to read, listen, and accept the reviews and opinions of others who have seen these types of bad pictures before and no exactly which ones should be avoided.

(To continue the analogy,) It is very likely, your own discernment between a bad film and a good one may still be a bit blind, hindered, and/or lacking. Therefore, in order to avoid continuing to serve as a naive audience member or worse yet cast member (or a pawn) in this horrible production, you must start trusting the wisdom of those who are not trapped in your seat or season ticket holders.

There may indeed only be one take, once chance to live our lives... However, there are many performances within this life! There are many matinees, many box office opportunities, many more and new examples of healthier, lucrative, purposeful moments, occasions and days ahead! (Leaving this analogy zone...)

Head forward! Head towards a new venue... Depend on reliable sources of information; those, less judgmental, less afraid, less turbulent, and more honest resources.

A "blood relation" doesn't guarantee a fulfilling example of honesty and sincerity.  A long standing position within a company, doesn't naturally convey or promote a severance or retirement which will fulfill feelings of purpose and happiness. The size of a community under the roof and steeple of a religious institution does not directly equate to the accuracy and truth which will be found within those walls.

Learn to discern the truth in you from the lies of others. Start a life that is meant to be lived each day with intention. Intentional living, matched with honesty and an avoidance of denial. Intentional living which seeks vigilantly to place you nearer to the gifts you desire. Lean on and search for the personal traits which you are best fashioned to draw strength from, reproduce and enjoy.

An artist must seek a creative environment and/or build their studio! A scientist must find a place where theories can be tested and facts are accepted. A bad politician must find voters willing to believe whatever they are told. A good public servant must be willing to listen and uphold the needs of others in ways few of us have witnessed. Your own votes must be an example of testimony and truth, rather than that of titillation and fear.

It may take you 20, 30, 40 or even 50 years to come to realize many of these patterns, or to feel an incentive to avoid their destruction in your own life. However long, whatever the age, rest assured the next 10,20,30, or 40 years would best be spent avoiding such destruction, insecurities, fear and prolonged exposure to the types of denial which only serve to rob you of your time left here on this planet!

Free yourself from such delusions!

Extreme cases of denial (delusion) are actually a form of psychosis.
Any delusion is always a mistake!

Who we spend our life trying to please or fellowship with, certainly changes everything! ...either for the worse or the betterment of our lives.

We must often look back in review of those who we initially thought were worth so many sacrifices. "Hindsight is 20/20!" Everyone has made bad calls at one point or another in trusting or supporting endeavors that were far from worthwhile or mutually healthy.

You are not alone. And life will get better now that you head forward with those costly trials and painful lessons under your belt. The pain and anger will also fade. Forgive yourself and forget the rest... They don't deserve any more of your energy or time.

Stay strong!!

Death by Denial, or Death of Denial - your choice...

The Truly Faithful Would Never Abuse People At The Hands Of Their Small-minded Religion

...a friend of mine recently shared the following testimony:

--
"I am so very hurt right now! I have lost many friends and family members from my life due to the fact that I am a lesbian and it seems I might have lost one more because of this fact.

Although I appreciate your concern for my eternal salvation, I need everyone to know this is not a lifestyle choice; it is a part of who I am! When I was younger I did so much damage to myself and others around me desperately trying to ignore who I am. It finally came to the point to where I had to be honest with myself and everyone around me or die, and I came very, very close to dying.

I chose to live. That was many years ago and I have never and will never regret that decision.

Being gay is not something you can just pray away, nor is it something that you can go to therapy for to get rid of and there is not a pill you can take to make it go away! It is not something I can laser off like a tattoo, Botox away like a wrinkle or put makeup over to conceal! It is simply a part of my person. You can choose to continue to love and accept me for who I am or you can delete me from your life. Either way I will continue to be a much happier person being who I am and loving myself just the way I am. I have several flaws but being a lesbian is not one of them!"
--

My perspective and response on this topic were of course lengthy and blunt: (What else is new?)

"Your message above was inspiring and a blessing!

Some folks are a muse for love and acceptance, while others are a muzzle for truth and grace. You are truly a muse!

As for your self-professed, "ex-friend"; they are undoubtedly in a very sad place. A place that designs and depends on false persecutions and fear; so that they might mistakenly imagine, some deeper love from God (and perhaps, new, "Christian" friends,) will be bestowed on them.

As if, due to their own imaginative diligence and bravery, they have earned reverence and respect. Unfortunately, they have very little understanding for the God they so desperately seek to impress.

It is their own life and "religion", which will continue to be a harsh struggle; due to the shallow, sad, version of lacking love, depth and understanding they possess. While on the contrary, your own life has found depth and liberation; though the acceptance and survival of the confusion, pain, circumstances and misunderstandings your own past has dealt you.

As your own life was faced with extreme hardships and confusion at times; you honored it with wisdom and grace. And while your confused friend sought salvation, and "Christian community"; they in turn, insulted their God with narrow-minded thinking and a complete perversion of any meaning Christ's sacrificial death represented. They have lost all perspective, (assuming they ever had it?) for what the cross so painfully represents and what purpose His unconditional atonement served.

It is often incredible, how poorly interpreted life can be at times. We live in a place so entirely full of irony. Just astounding! ...but I do still believe it all has purpose!

Your strength and honesty are both, an inspiration to all of us who understand. Hopefully, a revelation to any of those who live in a world of lies and fear. ...not to mention those who encourage, completely contorted and reckless methods of worship, religion and/or bad theology.

It is a sad state of affairs when people close to us seek or discover a faith, based on grace; and yet manage to ignore or avoid its' clear messages in order to feed their own insecure version of purpose and belonging!

Only the smallest-minded of Christians override the message of God in order to undermine the hearts of others!!!

Simply put, they use religion to find fault in others, so that they might feel further sanctified and special. It is a distortion, abuse and sickness the Bible speaks of a great deal. Your friend is neither alone, nor original in their ignorance.

Along their own journey, such weak Christians create (or are taught) a "religion"; rather than bother to learn, sound theology. Any religion, blatantly missing the messages of Christ's teachings, typically uses false persecutions and fear to inspire reasons to judge others.

Whether conscious or not; such mislead, wretched actions are usually fueled by the most basic desires to feel special, loved, exclusive, betrothed, "saved"; within an insecure life, which has let them down many times. They now find purpose, (perhaps they even interpret life as having more secure or safe fellowship,) while disposing of certain relationships in order to shore up their previously, and unfortunately persistent, insecure place in this world.

Whenever possible, try to fight the urge to dwell on such judgments; nor allow such ignorance to rob you of even one day of happiness. Their lost causes are simply not worth it! And unfortunately, it would take more years than you or I have, to help them through their ignorance and often intentionally, misinterpreted faith.

Such shallow faiths are hardly a source for the very salvation they claim to seek; and far, FAR, from any message Christ shared with all of us. Nor are their judgments about your own salvation in keeping with anything Christ death represented. Other than the ironic fact, that lucky for them, He also atoned for their ignorance and pathetic, insulting ways of abusing his message and His repeated definitions of love and grace.

It has been a pleasure to know you, since we were small children! Sorry I was not in the area or around, during those times in your life when things were their hardest! Our own early memories together were mainly that of playing around and goofing off! Here's to many more years like those! :-D"

If you ever have some spare time one day; and your not totally sick of my rants at this point?
...I was inspired in January to Blog on some of these same conclusions: http://goo.gl/3yxDK

Additionally, my own humbling journey has also lead to much personal growth; I summarized some of this here: http://goo.gl/wJScr

I have also witnessed my share of men, "dropping the ball", and causing plenty of greif. Some of those lessons I summarized here: http://goo.gl/2abmM

The Truly Faithful Would Never Abuse People At The Hands Of Their Small-minded Religion

Making Sense of Ill-fated Influences

A friend recently made me aware of this troubling interview with a prominent, Protestant, Southern Baptist, Minister:

http://video.msnbc.msn.com/martin-bashir/47090111/#47090111

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

While it is very difficult to understand such contradictory motivations and confusing direction from a "Christian" leader; it is necessary to use such examples bad "preaching" (and opinions) as catalyst for reviewing the sources of influence we each often allow to guide our own personal, moral and ethical compasses.

Simply depressing to envision folks viewing a pulpit, any pulpit, occupied by such staff members; whom are potentially yielding, unquestioned, "spiritually inspired", influence over their trusting congregations.

But I do know it happens everyday! Incidentally, this occurs while each of us, "bible belt audience members", have a front row seat.  It is more than a bit unnerving to be so close to; and quite frankly, not a show I like having season tickets to.

Such bizarre rhetoric, from folks thought of as "spiritual leaders"; is almost as depressing as witnessing whole News networks (a.k.a. Rupert Murdock owned media outlets) devoted to simular, unfounded, false inspirations; while effectively and embarrassingly, influencing droves of naive viewers, day after day, for years at a time.

All in the name of commanding repeat, titillated, viewership; so Gillett can sale some more razors! We are nothing in this country if not exceptional consumers!  Moreover, such shallow influences are evidence that our principles can truly be compromised for the oddest of reasons.

Hatred, fear and misdirected anger are powerful, yet shameful, emotions. Pride and insecurities are evidently the sneaky resources we each depend on to make sense of such ill-fated influences.

... It's embarrassing. ... humbling. Cause for concern.
"Concern", which we can't afford to also convert to fear and insecurity.
We must just continue to keep our grace in check, along with any growing wisdom we can muster.

Thank you friends, for your continued exceptional stewardship, influence and steadfast encouragement. :-)

Making Sense of Ill-fated Influences

Don't Miss The Boat - Understand Why, Rather Than Misunderstanding How

That carton will make you chuckle, no matter how you view Earth's natural history!

Not a good thing when Genesis is thought as a solution or used to define natural history. Thank goodness, for those who choose to do so, the author made no mention of medicine!

Such thoughts have often made me wonder (;especially with gas prices making the proposition so unappealing anyway,) if there are "young earth Christians" who refuse to use fossil fuels, for fear it is some sort of trickery, scam or "bad science"?  I guess not, after all the only folks you typically see pedaling or walking down the roads in the U.S., in the name of their faith, are pairs of Mormans on a mission.

If there is one thing history has shamefully taught us time and time again; you should never use religion, nor the interpretation or exegesis of scripture, to define the limits, progression or opportunities of science; nor as a basis for understanding the wonders, nature or relative position of our world and the universe it occupies.

It should not remain a position of convenience for one's faith, that they have no paleontologist, anthropologist, geologist, physicist, astronomers or other scientist within their family. It is simply not fair to their children's education; nor is it a practical or survivable theology within a world which has entered the information age; where, appropriate, proven, knowledge and science is at our fingertips and within any portable piece of mobile computing we own.

Scripture should never be used to explain "how" it happened; rather it should offer a guide and inspiration to those whom's faith can grow through additional examples of "why".  The bible is a love story, with an explanation as to the desired relationship between you and your Creator as well as the lessons and love He parentally and spiritually wishes for you to know, share and feel.

When the Bible is interpreted directly or literally as a basis for "how", you create a limited, dated, inaccurate understanding of this planet, it's science and it's opportunities. One, which is no more imaginative than a Steven Spielberg film, or that of ancient science and maritime knowledge.  (A flat Earth, convieniently centered at the middle of it all.)

Such strong holds on inaccurate assessments, beliefs and judgments, inspired by one's faith, are often fostered through the desire to feel one is surviving the persecution of others in the name of the love they have for their creator.  Furthermore, many of these desires to feel one has survived persecution are exasperated within a free society and culture such as our's here in the U.S.; where no such persecution's against one's (Christian) faith exist.  

It is as if these same "young earth", U.S. based Christians, read the scriptures, and hear on the News, of distant cultures who were subjected to extreme cases of persecution, and almost feel guilty they to are not subject to such challenges or demonstrations of faith. In turn they feel as if persecution is the "works" by which God will better understand their love and faithfulness.

Whatever the motivation or rational is, or who convinced them that modern science and understanding, is evil and must be thwarted off; unfortunately, such views only serve to create small, limited examples of their Lord, having the opposite result desired where related to inspiring any new believers, by only serving to send knowledgeable folks; unaware the purpose, actions or attitudes attributed to false persecutions; running away from any related faith or testimonies witnessed.

Keeping in mind, an attraction to persecution, may also be founded in the knowledge that one is all alone in their faith or their beliefs. So in many cases there is simply no desire to attract others towards their faith or explain themselves.  Since such isolation also serves towards a perceived piety, which further limits any need to explain to anyone how or why they feel or think the way they do.  Such rationals can be a very contrived version or aspect of one's faith and subsequent behavior.

Given such limited social results, the only assurance those apposing such stubborn, false beliefs may take away from any resulting confrontation is the fact that any number of such beliefs (or believers) will continue to dwindle and have less and less negative impacts on the faith.  Given the fact such naively stubborn positions are so unattractive and intentionally offer no valid rationale; since in their own mind and given the inspiration, there is no, or limited need to do so.

The results of such believers strongholds will end up as fruitful as those whom  historically, in the name of faith, denounced sex.  You simply don't hear of those believers any more, since they had no way to procreate the growth of their congregations.  In the same way, a faith denouncing knowledge, reason, explanation, modern science and the dissemination of factual information will continually attract and find less and less followers.  They are simply denying something fundamental to their growth in the face of now readily available facts and necessities.

Such issues were rarely challenged 80 years ago, when 80% of the world's population were illiterate, and virtually NONE of the population was capable of easily sharing information.  In a world such as that, the pulpit or, a top a soap box, served as some of the most effective, and in many cases the only way, people shared much of anything.

But again, such shrinking numbers of fellow believers whom share such narrow views in denial of modern science, are often merely dismissed by such congregations as a sign of the growing sin in this world, and the likelihood of the end times nearing; or God's return and rapture where he will deal with the wicked ways of those who do not also follow such thinking.

Persecution and piety can be very powerful motivation for remaining ignorant and fervent.  Hence the numerous moments in history when such progressions in teaching and science were time and time again considered blasphemous and heresy.

Many folks were even killed for their progressive views. Talk about a reversal of faith! Who really suffered at the hands of persecution in those societies?  But make no mistake about it, society still suffered at the hands of such cultural and religious limitations!  As I often say, "pride is a very sneaky sin."

While such limits and concise definitions as to what is the "truth" or is false (or "bad science"), may be comforting for some; I personally find it much more assuring that our history, opportunities and purpose; not to mention our relationship with our creator and our obligations of love and respect for others; are all far more imaginative than the limits I have seen far to many Christians and/or biblical scholars attempt to place on us or Him.

Dream big, study hard, learn much, never stop...  You weren't given that big brain to simply find small minded limitations or comforts where related to your heart, your goals, our God, your life or your learning.

Don't Miss The Boat - Understand Why, Rather Than Misunderstanding How

Beautiful People Don't Just Happen

The message below points to the wisdom of those who have learned the hard way and concluded, trails can undoubtedly be the blessings which most effectively mold us and makes us grateful for who we have become and the many gifts we have been shown.

Nothing teaches humility better. And humility is crucial for man's grasp of grace and forgiveness.

Scriptures are great for clarifying this understanding, especially for those whom were uncertain or required further examples. 

I have known a few, rare people, who simply exuded this spirit of wisdom, humility and compassion. And I have known many others who have been preached to for decades, yet still seem to lack any deep understanding for atonement and grace.

Personal trails are definitely the most effective teaching tool in life. One of the many reasons Christians who, over emphasize on scripture reading (or study), versus the applications of their own personal testimonies (private or public), are often lacking discernment and adequate perspective when choosing to judge another; given the fact the price we all pay on our journey to grace, humility and wisdom is often perilously high.

In other words, some lack the personal testimony to bring such grace and love to light; while many just simply, ignore it. The test for all of us, is to maintain grace for such careless oversights as well.

This journey, our journeys are neither an intellectual process nor one we should ever judge in others. It is shameful and truly costly when such judgments occur. :-(

Robert F. Kennedy Tombstone inscription:
“He who learns must suffer
And even in our deep pain that cannot forget
Falls drop by drop, upon the heart,
And in our own despair, against our will,
Comes wisdom to us by the awful grace of God.”
― Aeschylus

About Elisabeth Kübler-Ross:
She was a very interesting and accomplished women! Fun to read her biography of accomplishments and quotes. Twenty honorary degrees! Sounds like some sort of record! And yet she is a steward in teaching humility and grace. You have to love that about her!

Another quote she shared:
"We need to teach the next generation of children from day one that they are responsible for their lives. Mankind's greatest gift, also its greatest curse, is that we have free choice. We can make our choices built from love or from fear."

Beautiful People Don't Just Happen

Religion says DO, Jesus says DONE

Religion has brought many people much pain...

Nothing more despicable to me than when it is used, harnessed or conveyed in order to hide behind or justify behavior! Behavior which my own very embarrassing limits causes me to lastingly, deeply regret or despise.

Were it not for the example of our Lord Jesus Christ, I would have such a limited perspective & inept capacity to understand or deal with the atrocious abuse of religion. (Abuse within religion, abuse from religion, however you see or experience it?)

Often ashamed of my own past encouraging words and involvement to and with others; once I found how shamefully easy it was to be in the destructive crosshairs of the falsely righteous, religious, peers I had once called friends, brothers & sisters.

Thanks to His example of grace and wisdom I stive to forgive and work hard to effectively move on; but I could do so much better, and pray that I will!

Fun to see examples of Art and Style used to effectively comunicate such warnings and encourage others to find wisdom rather than cling to poor, misdirected sources of belonging.

Many ministries are such a blessing and an exceptional way to witness the gifts God has given some of us.

It is just a scary thing when man believes religion is the embodiment of Christ, rather than remembering that Christ is the embodiment of God, Grace and Mercy. And as unfortunate as it is; man made organizations (even those designed for worship,) more often than not, bloat into large structures of corporate worship and hierarchies of religious loyalties; becoming a place more befitting for bolstering ego, creating a since of belonging or confidence, rationales and strength or security based on numbers, etc..

Perhaps even more disturbing are the eventual sources for justification, condemnation, judgment and repute which quickly follow large structures of worship. Such contortions of God are unfortunately much more prevalent than are regular gatherings and places which are continually mindful of humility, equality, grace and pointing to the cross; therefor, each and every ministry (and those who attend them,) must be ever mindful of such tempting distortions and man-made attractions which attach to any tendency to feed one's very human and mortal ego.

The only real place of love, comfort, grace and wisdom which achieved such perfection was Christ. However, many naively find themselves on a path of years and even decades of trusting their church; instead of being mindful and steadfast to avoid piety, pride, the temptation of the ego or a false since of belonging and righteousness; simply because many peers are gathered in their midst.

Corporate worship and the exceptional ministries who often brave starting their own spin off from a large "main stream" or growing independent organization, (even with a fresh group of self-appointed "Elders",) have their place and are often glorious and impressive; however, it is a rare follower who can also distinguish from the temptations and inspirations which come from popularity, impressive speeches, ironic boastings of humility, explanations concerning the "chosen" versus those "less fortunate", or learning how to repent for sins of commission as well as sins of omission, etc...

The unfortunate majority of "followers" of religions, tend to find it VERY hard to distinguish from the inspirations their man-made ministries deliver; versus, the salvation their Lord gave to them freely.

While a gift of salvation and atonement is occasionally discussed with many (or even most) independent ministries, it is also to often wrapped in all the trappings and comforts of having much more to do with the inevitable hierarchy, and predicated since of corporate beloning and the sheer joy, power, truth and encouragement such a community fosters, rather than the originating message of love, humility and grace. (Although I will admit, women tend to be better at being and remaining independently mindful of the later.)

Another interesting bait and switch, are those large corporate groups who foster belonging and solidarity through the claims of persecution and the need to defend Gods position in this world. I find those some of the most disturbing examples of "ministry", when they are predicated on creating an image or position within this world of a frail God; one that quite frankly is in man's own image.

Folks generously wish to demonstrate the love they have for God; therefore, ministries utilizing this err of "defending persecution" as a means to justify the condemnation and judgment of others, is such a shameful ploy; and unfortunately, one I have many friends in the wake of. (You will see these type of groups tending to claim that "end-times are near", and "apathy and tolerance are rampant", etc... These groups have been out in force for 100's, if not 1000's of years in one form or another, they just conveniently deny history and facts, along with grace and Gods true sovereignty.)

You never see God warn that "without our help his Will will not be done." Or make any such encouragement, "once you find me, please find another group of like minded people whom you can boast and feel more confident about your beliefs and/or behaviors through." But you do finds millions of folks who find solace in such notions. It is truly the resulting condemnation of those who don't agree with such gatherings that are the true shame of it all.

As Christ so perfectly put it, "They know not what they do."

Religion says DO, Jesus says DONE

Embrace Regret

"Regret doesn't remind us that we did badly, it remind us that we can do better."

While forgiving yourself for things you wish you had done differently is important; embracing the purpose and benefits of being a person who can feel regret, and using these natural feelings constructively, is just as crucial.

In other words, when reviewing the past experiences of one's own life; grace, without wisdom, will in all likelihood, lead to a much less productive, fulfilling, life experience. As for how I personally combine such adages within my own faith and journey; I can't think of any time when I have sought, prayed or yearned for forgiveness, while not also seeking, praying and striving for renewed or increased wisdom.

This talk was a great reminder for me, of the crucial lessons my faith and experiences painfully taught me years ago: The trials, mistakes and regrets themselves, are the blessings life most potently utilizes to create wisdom within each of us. Learning to embrace regret and our mistakes in an effective way, is crucial to heading forward through life with richer more fulfilling decisions, actions and results.

(Kathryn Schulz makes a powerful and moving case for embracing our regrets.)

"...if we have goals and dreams, and we want to do our best, and if we love people and we don't want to hurt them or lose them, we should feel pain when things go wrong. The point isn't to live without any regrets. The point is to not hate ourselves for having them."

Embrace Regret

The Slight-of-Hand Which Blinds the Faithful

A friend of mine, (whom I agree with) recently voiced their shock and frustration with the fact that many in the audience during a recent GOP / Tea Party candidate debate, voiced their desire to avoid providing Health Care to those in need.

My friend's thoughts and their posted link:
"We could not believe our ears last night during the Tea Party debate when the crowd screamed, "let him die", really? Hardly the party for life

.Audience at tea party debate cheers leaving uninsured to die

If you're uninsured and on the brink of death, that's apparently a laughing matter to some audience members at last night's tea party Republican presidential debate. Texas Rep. Ron Paul, a doctor, was asked a hypothetical question by CNN host Wolf Blitzer about how society should respond if a health..."

My responce:
Quite frankly, it is in keeping with the biggest applause garnered during the previous week's Republican contender debate; when it was mentioned Gov Perry had the lead in executions, with over 230! To say the GOP is "Pro Life" is just a typical, slight-of-hand, brain washing for the sake of swaying Protestant votes.

** WARNING: A "how I really feel" moment, coming on...

Witnessing momentum from groups such as The Tea Party or the GOP within the South / South West / a.k.a. "Bible Belt" is a real shame to me.

A real shame to me when it seems so many of my fellow Christ followers, have just become "followers" of causes well outside of their faith; simply for the presumed sake of being loyal and following. So few seem to be questioning the facts and actual moralities of what they are seeing demonstrated within the very bodies they are choosing to support. That whole desire within a completely free Nation to imagine one is under persecution, can certainly be a bit contagious; and unfortunately, VERY misdirected towards so many of the wrong things! This apparent desire to "withstand persecution" is about the only thing I can assume is continuing to influencing the miss-directed loyalties of the Bible Belt / Christ Centered votes towards the GOP. It sure isn't the "facts" which are having an influence.

Such easy pray, has proven to be quite the easy voter conversions for decades within the GOP political machine. Brilliant marketing! And rather embarrassing for all of us Texan's; since no group has proven to be more susceptible than those within our apparent, peer pressured, peer susceptible, scared to think outside our box, "Bible Belt" followers. "Conservative thinking" is all most can relate to, perform or know. And unfortunately someone has convinced many that "conservative" (a.k.a. stalled, FROZEN, blindly loyal or paralyzed) thinking and being scared to call a spade a spade within their own previously aligned party factions, is the more "moral" way to be. It has become a religion in and of itself.
(One that has actually convinced many, that caring for the poor and sick is the cause of our debts! And that ignoring the TRILLIONS spent every decade on war is a normal or "moral" way to think! It has become an insanity! And my local, Christian, Brothers and Sisters can't seem to pull themselves free. They are actually joining movements to the contrary!)

However, such ignorance and naivety is as productive as denying scientific facts; so why not just throw in economics, biology, sociology, political science and humanities in the denial pool while your at it. We've already tossed physics, micro-biology, genetics and geology right out the window. This way the Christian community need not maintain any educated positions on ANYTHING significant. I've often said, "think goodness my more conservative Christian friends, don't believe Genesis addressed micro-processors or medicine."
- I Digress!

Life is lived well beyond the womb. To be Pro-War, Pro-Guns, Anti- Heath Care, Pro-Record Setting Death Penalties, etc... yet also claim you're "Pro Life" is just insane! It is like being Pro-Christ and Anti-Grace! Which is a another typical irony of the GOP! It is like being Christian and being Pro-GOP! Very ironic - isn't it??

I can't find any respect for these false divisions and false pretenses of morality any longer. Christ would have no part of such hypocrisy! Far to blatant to simply be ignored anymore. It is like trying to pretend "liberal thinking" isn't at the heart of this country's foundation and our most inspiring examples of progress!

Where would The Civil Right Movement,The Deceleration of Independence, Our Constitutional Amendments, Our Entrepreneurs, or any significant inventions, technological leaps or even our Faith be without Liberal Thinking?!?! The Tea Party will give birth to NOTHING! Nothing but animosity and a longer term rut!
(Try this: Name someone of significant influence to your Faith or our country's history, and research their own personal persuasion on such matters of thought. Edison, Thomas Jefferson, the Write Brothers, 99% of our Founding Fathers, Jesus Christ, you name it! ALL, THOUGHT AND PERSEVERED WELL OUTSIDE THEIR COMFORT ZONES. None, followed the pack, or were easily influenced by groups as lame as the GOP.)

If Christians continue to think their role is to fit into boxes and follow the masses or influence within their own tiny local communities, they will only serve to exacerbate this countries issues and the corruption of the political scene. Not impressive! A waste of one's faith and a waste of one's freedom to vote as individuals within a democracy; versus the brain dead reality of being so easily influenced by blind peers.

But I write all of this knowing full well the "backfire effect" will certainly play it's part in preventing anything mentioned here of having any influence on much of anything. :-)
http://youarenotsosmart.com/2011/06/10/the-backfire-effect/
** The Back Fire Effect:
"The Misconception: When your beliefs are challenged with facts, you alter your opinions and incorporate the new information into your thinking.

The Truth: When your deepest convictions are challenged by contradictory evidence, your beliefs get stronger."

The Slight-of-Hand Which Blinds the Faithful

Fear & Selfish Egos Will Cause Children to Chose Between Facts or Faith

Recently, a brilliant Christian friend of mine, placed the following article within their social topics of interest:

"The scientific narrative actually points to a deeper narrative, which is that of God himself.” (Dr. Alister McGrath). The BioLogos Forum brings together some of the brightest minds in science today, this is refreshing and much needed challenge to the Evangelical community."

A Leap of Truth: Evolutionary Creation | The BioLogos Forum

http://biologos.org/blog/a-leap-of-truth
***********************************

Thanks for sharing this video snippet and article! It opens strong with, Dr. John Polkinghorne: “The doctrine of creation isn’t about how things began, it’s about why things exist, what holds the world in being. The Christian belief is that it is the will of God that holds the world in being.”

As well, it closes with such a crucial point! “I don’t want people abandoning the faith because they find out that evolution is really real. It is God’s truth. So here we have this segment, this all-important segment of God’s people, who are out of touch with God’s reality. I mean, it is God’s universe! This natural world is God’s creation—and so the people, who especially need to be in touch with God’s reality, are off in a corner.”

So the question is quite a hot topic for discussion: Can the Evangelical community embrace actual scientific narratives?

Unfortunately, as we head forward on this topic; we must keep in mind the following psychological tendencies:
Common Misconception: When your beliefs are challenged with facts, you alter your opinions and incorporate the new information into your thinking.
The Truth: When your deepest convictions are challenged by contradictory evidence, your beliefs get stronger.

Far to many American, Protestant, Christian's thrive or gain purpose and meaning from the thought that they are standing strong in the face of mounting persecutions! Unfortunately, to this end, countless believers are therefor inspired and actually insist, (and are unfortunately teaching their children) disproved notions, like the Earth is a mere 6,000 years old! All in the name of defending what they believed to be an interpreted history of story of creation form the book of Genesis.

Given the fact Science has continued throughout history to advance our understanding of the Earth and its position within the universe; (Take a look at this past Blog, "To Much Potential") children within households being taught to deny current scientific facts are much more likely to face countless, serious, adolescent crisis when finally made aware of current facts. Such rude awakenings will undoubtedly lead to more than just questioning of one's faith. More likely, those victimized by such narrow minded, mislead, "sheltered", naive theology will unfortunately struggle with and often commit to disavowing their a seemingly, irrelevant, childhood/ish faith entirely. It would be so much more prudent and healthy for children to be taught how readily available scientific facts can and should coexist within their faith, they

There are few things more tragic, not to mentioning more damaging to the future of the Christian church, than those parents (who are in some cases unwittingly,) making their children chose between facts or faith. I so respect those parents who are able to let go of their own pride, or perhaps their own personal need to feel they are "defending their God" and undergoing imaginary persecutions in the name of their love for Him.

Fear of the Unknown:
Perhaps many Christian's continue be fearful of today's science simply because they feel they can never take the time necessary to understand all of the research which is available to those wishing to grasp more complex topics. Therefor they feel they must find a trust, or "faith" as it were in it's resulting facts.

So this fear or denial of facts, is more accurately centered around a notion that "believers" can not place their faith in anything but God. As a result they choose to fear what they do not understand when ever man is the source of such confusing or complex facts and topics.

Again, this fear is based on a "loyal" feeling, one suggesting they should only maintain a blind faith (or any faith) in those things which they can understand God is directly involved in. This creates a most unfortunate paradox, when you consider it prevents any such believes from trusting much of anything beyond their own understanding, experience and/or education; unless it is that of theological topics centered around their faith, which they then choose to accept as a mystery God has not yet chosen to reveal the "truth and understanding" for. This perceived expectation of trust in, or faith towards, a science, is confused as a direct challenge to their faith and loyalty to God.

It is truly an odd paradox and very upsetting struggle for many; Choosing to form a prejudice against something in the name of your faith in God. Choosing to loose site of valid, scientific facts presented to us daily within our modern society, feeling the vast amounts of related research are far to lengthy or complicated to understand and therefor arguing the results are potentially a persecution against ones faith in God. All of these fears motivations are worthy of personal introspection, in order to help unravel and let go of.

There are many reasons within any society, modern or ancient, that people often fear what they don't understand. Many of those within Religious categories make the irrational assumption that something not understood is therefor evil. Such narrow minded thinking plagues our society to this day, with what must be described the most destructive social vices of human history; that of extreme prejudices against those whom are different from us, or have an different understanding than us.

Topics centered around scientific facts, as well as countless others, are certainly not immune from such damaging fears and faith-based prejudice.
Definition: A prejudice is a prejudgment, an assumption made about someone or something before having adequate knowledge to be able to do so with guaranteed accuracy.

I find it shameful when a faith, based on Grace and Atonement, fails to serve as a Faith which understands and accepts it's own ignorance or need to learn. Faith should encourage us to embrace humility openly; rather than pridefully defend inaccurate positions. Additionally, such faithful believers must work to convey to such peers a God which is not the source of fears, prejudisim and skepticism's of other's.

Shunning or doubting, simply because discussions and topics present facts, research, science and theories; which a typical, faithful believer may know very little about; is just not acceptable or productive towards the advancement of ideas, learning or faith.  Nor are such typical, "causes for concern" involving science, within the average layperson grasp, education level, field of expertise or thorough understanding.  Therefor, any individual's struggle between science and faith, must avoid at all cost, accepting fear based terms or categories such as, "good science" or "bad science", as a guide or reason to relate, condone or dismiss and potentially retaliate an opportunity to learn and grow one's knowledge.

Why would anyone believing in a God, whom is described as being "beyond their own comprehension", choose to disbelieve and explain away the nature of our planets existence and history, through unfounded claims that scientist are lying to us or to themselves. None of these ENORMOUS beliefs should coexist with such NARROW thinking! Nor should, relentless, fear based prejudice and pride-filled desires recklessly act as if they are defending a "truth", when all that is being shamefully, insecurely postured is a defiant, dismissive attitude towards real facts and/or sound science based on current and growing knowledge within a viable field of study.

Poor Ministries:
Few Evangelical Christians ever hear sermons as well rounded and with the breadth and understanding of ministries such as the one delivered in the following video. If more sermons would approach responsible, modern day learning and interpretations in this manor, who knows how the Christian church might be flourishing, and who knows what additional depth our sciences would rise to, or these levels of intelligent discussion one might witness regularly within many more modern Christian congregations.

Untitled from BioLogos Foundation Inc on Vimeo.
Believing God is Threatened:
Is science really EVER a threat to sovereignty? How could that EVER be so? Isn't that very notion simply a form of human arrogance and ego? The human desire to defend, to wage war, to battle a viewpoint. We should not attempt to live a life a Faithful followers of an almighty all knowing God, and then reduce him down to the complexities and the conceivable bickering's of our own human minds and our own limited imaginations.

In an article entitled "The Backfire Effect", such backwards tendencies are summarized as the following physiological activities:
"Once something is added to your collection of beliefs, you protect it from harm. You do it instinctively and unconsciously when confronted with attitude-inconsistent information. Just as confirmation bias shields you when you actively seek information, the backfire effect defends you when the information seeks you, when it blindsides you. Coming or going, you stick to your beliefs instead of questioning them. When someone tries to correct you, tries to dilute your misconceptions, it backfires and strengthens them instead. Over time, the backfire effect helps make you less skeptical of those things which allow you to continue seeing your beliefs and attitudes as true and proper." http://bit.ly/jnvPkw

Quite the psychosis, and quite definitely a rebellious psychology none of us should want to be guilty of.  Certainly not when discussing and advancing our own beliefs in our faith of the Almighty, the maker of Heaven and Earth. Do such psychological tendencies perhaps beg the question; or in actuality pose an answer, as to why Christian's, (or any other religious, social or political group) are so susceptible at times to inaccurate thinking, rather than inerrant truths?  After all, stagnation and/or a rebellion towards new knowledge was never a theological goal of the Gospels.

Seemingly Unaware of Current Tools:
As for the children of these faithful, faith-filled believers; how else can they reconcile what they have been taught as "truth", once they realize they have been misled on so many scientific points? Not to mention, much of these "fundamental" believers are standing on what they believe to be the "inerrant word of God"; which then requires you question the entire text if you believe any of it to not mean the interpretation you have been taught. A truly horrible paradox for this young, impressionable audiences.

We live in an information age, an age of true knowledge dissemination on a level never before seen. While persecution is a reality for millions of non-Americans, around the world; We often witness many Christians in the U.S., gravitate towards areas of controversy simply so we can feel we have shown our love for God through the defense of false persecutions. This is often fueled and justified through a theology thanks to the continual presence of sin, you must always be on the lookout for and defend against, any and all "secular" notions or origins of thought.

This resulting distortion of facts and even paranoia, not only effects the way many Christian's now vote, and the resulting irrelevance of certain, politicized, modern topics of controversies, they now passionately cling to; but also their ability blatantly denial of countless scientific facts. Mind you, these are scientific facts which God's gift providing us this life in such a rich, modern, capable country has made each of us generously privy to. Just shameful to not find thanks for each area and category of these many blessings!

(This is a topic I have obviously struggled with and spent far to many years toiling over, given my own struggle and transition during college from that of a Religion Major, preparing for the ministry; to that of Physics, geared towards computer engineering. Since those days, the entire text where related to Physics and Astronomy has under gone a true renascence in advancements; while so many, if not MOST of my Christians friends along the way, have often missed out on this incredible era of research and revelation due to a fear of it's conflicts with faith.)

An Evangelism Which Actually Destroys Progress:
It does so little to expand a movement of Christianity within our, informed, modern country; to denying indisputable facts based on reliable science. It completely and utterly destructive when one considers each of our believer's children need only turn to their smart phones for the actual FACTS of; Microbiology, Physics, Astronomy, Genetics, you name it! And it is an odd misconception that something is a disputable fact, simply because a group chooses to dispute it.

Science, freely admits when a fact is not proven, this is the nature of all scientific methodologies. However, the modern field of science also avoids wasting its' time addressing groups which offer disputes, if and when they are unqualified and technically incapable of challenging previously published results. Life is far to short, and budgets far to tight for legitimate scientific organizations to waste time on such odd social tendencies.

It is unfortunately the responsibility therefor of the Christian community itself to police the fallacies often propagated within the modern Christian Church. One such example of a Christian organization working to unravel many of, shall we say, the more ignorant and therefore damaging testimony's now circulating within the church is, The BioLogos Foundation. http://biologos.org/resources/conversations/
One of their recently released video's attempts to address the recent trend of using the term and pseudoscience of "Intelligent Design" as a platform for discussing God's role in our current evolution. You can imagine how frustrating it is, to depend on the financial backing of even more Christians, in order to try and advance the thinking of Fundamentalist Christian. All in an attempt to prevent further damage to the sanctity, sanity and growth of the Christian movement. Tough job, but someone clearly has GOT TO DO IT!


Other's Simply Don't Respect This Foolish Discussion:
Perhaps it is indeed, ironic, the scientist own lack of grace and patients for this section of society, which future fuels Christian's stance of "persecution"? You can certainly understand why scientific organization have no funding, nor desire to relate to; or pay homage and therefor dignify groups; whom are not seemingly capable of looking towards factual information, versus theology to guide and direct their "understanding" of facts. Not to mention there is so little "passions" directed at refuting Christian's uninformed claims in these ares of science, since such disputes do very little towards gaining additional funding or private and government support. Further perpetuating, some Christian's mistaken interpretation of "shutting the other side up", finding validity in the scientific community's lack of attention or blatant resistance.

Perhaps the prayer which should be continually offered by more informed Christian's; those capable and willing to embrace scientific facts along side faith; must pray, more Scientist taking the time to help and inform this sub-culture of well-meaning, faith based, believers. Through an attempt to respect and approach their VERY different approaches to life, long enough to share how research and definitive approaches to scientific methodologies and resulting test and facts are derive through the progressions of all scientific fields and bodies of research.

However, even as I write this, I think of those countless folks, whom we all know, which will simply never be receive such scientific facts or reason. Again, they feel they are defending a persecution of faith, and God is counting on them to ward off these miss-guided challenges to His will and truth. Mighty powerful position in one's psyche to over come. We can all see shy the scientist capable of "shedding light" don't bother.

Bullets Dodged:
I often say, thank goodness folks don't interpret Genesis as a guide to the truth within the medical field or civil engineering. Many more lives would be at risk each day. Fortunately, their current qualms with Micro-Biology, Evolutionary Biology, Geology, Astronomy, Physics, etc., haven't cost near as many daily lives yet. And countries like ours are still wise enough to continue minimal funding for such research and exceptional advances in each of these fields. But much more needs to be done.

Beyond the slowing or blatant damage ever actually caused to advancements in crucial ares of science through any naive cross-section of voters; it simple saddens me, when well-meaning folks, act as if Genesis offers us a record which explains how any science lies! Since they are misunderstanding that crucial opening point about the doctrine of creation; and again, creating a paradox which I'm certain so many 21st century children will have an impossible time reconciling, once they are more mature and more factually knowledgeable. And who's family will ever benefits by such division and late adolescent "searching", once outside of their parents trust, leadership and wisdom?

Beating a Dead Horse:
Sorry to shed once again such a naive stricken tendency on the Evangelical Christian movement; given my previous blog entry, discussing the bizarre tendency and brilliant targeting of those willing to vote for a Pro-War political party within a Federal election, the name of Pro-life and anti Gay marriage issues; which are actually always governed by our individual States. "No Lemmings in Heaven"

However, there simply must be a movement, an education, towards unraveling such irrational contradictions and reasons for faith, false interpretations and misguided morality. It is quite possible, the primary immorality such antics will one day be known for, is that of riotous indignation based on ridiculous denial of the most basic and obvious facts. Surely this is not the goal of Fundamentalist?

At least I didn't title this blog, "Making FUN of DA MENTAL approach, to Fun-da-mental Christianity." It was under strong consideration. -jk-

Perhaps, I need to take a good lesson on sugar coating my mutually, lovingly intentioned banters? Naa - life's to short. This blog entry was long enough! Any potential audience of young Christians are already confused enough.

Time for some much needed straight shooting!

Fear & Selfish Egos Will Cause Children to Chose Between Facts or Faith

Let's at least agree, there are no lemmings in Heaven

Heard it asked recently, "can an anti-war republican win the GOP nomination?" I find it disturbing that a party has found strength in bolstering such diametrically apposed campaign positions, and no one targeted by these antics seems to be passionately discussing this irony!

While most are certainly aware this is the same political party which has not so sneakily depended on the Protestant Christian's vote in every modern election; why is more not made of the fact, their attempt to devise broad majority support, also requires a simultaneously "Pro-Life" and apparently "Pro-War" vote!? Huh??

If we are honest, we must admit this bazaar stretch of values is far from the only Irony within the GOP's extremely well marketed campaign agenda's; each of which are seemingly dependent on, completely blind, party loyalties, and often require a faith-filled audience, who place their religious faith on the back of political agendas each time they head to the polls. When in fact a person's religion should rarely find such refuge or parallels.

A better question perhaps, than "what has become of Washington?"; might be, "what have our party caucuses become?" Not to mention the other, hot topic of late; the slight-of-hand issue of "Lowering Taxes", which is quite simply "Spending MORE" by another name! ...so odd to me these lame tactics work on our presumably, information age driven, "educated", Christian, population! It does perhaps prove the information age adage, "garbage in, garbage out!"

Further ironic for the Protestant side of this GOP coin; the only candidate qualified to run the United States of America in over a decade, (which the GOP has only half-heartedly supported,) is most likely Mitt Romney. Simply review any and all aspects of his education, personal & professional background and exceptional values. However, the GOP's misguided, seemingly cultic at this point; and as a result, misled regardless of faith, voters; wont be able to support him once again, purely because he is a Mormon.

Such misguided positions, (which also require ignorantly substituting State Constitutional provisions as valid topics of debate, during Federal elections; i.e. Gay Right & abortion, which are all governed and enforced at a State level,) will forever be the linchpin representing why our most capable and educated candidates for such complex Federal offices will never be the "chosen" candidates by the GOP's caucus.

Further considering this exhausting reality, that a vast amount of GOP voters would rather have an oval office occupant, based simply on their time spent sitting in a Protestant church pew, during some potentially postured period of life; regardless of any way they have actually lived his or her adult life, and with NO regard to their education or competence; you easily gain an understanding for the resulting landscape of past, present and apparently future GOP candidates. Sadly, any idealized, Protestant Christian candidate, could easily have a two digit IQ capable of doing little more than wrecking this countries standings; it matters not, so long as he or she campaigns as a devout "Protestant Christian", and is somewhat campaign coach-able, he or she will receive an oddly guaranteed percentage of right wing votes.

Even if you don't agree with all such prevalent statistics or my vague interpretation of past and potential GOP hopefuls; you must admit such campaign approach are absolute marketing genius. One so effectively able to prey on those who pray; and as a result, depend on little more than the needs of those blinded by faith to chose candidates they feel God must have had a hand in choosing. No one can deny such claims are now a mainstay for any GOP candidate to have a chance at securing the highest political office. And given the fact we as Christians are actually called by faith to NEVER "judge" any man's eternal salvation; and therefor have no real position for doubting his or her own claims of faithfulness; we support said candidates with very little or no useful scrutiny.

As a result, within the largest most successful Democracy in human history, you now see vast amounts of votes redirected from a population of those faithful towards a Christ centered God, cast on a blind faith of political propaganda, incapable of actually knowing or determining any man's personal salvation or faith; much less discerning the hype of a campaign or one's character and priorities. Not sure if this is really what God called his children to so blindly accept. A truly embarrassing "witness" for a world wide audience to witness! And quite frankly, having a blind faith in God, should NEVER be exchanged, substituted or directed towards a mere mortal man; regardless of his party affiliation. (And I add that last point of "party affiliation", was made strictly to point out how ridiculous such, U.S., Protestant, Christian trends, truly are!) Faith-filled people should never be taken advantage of in this manner, but sadly, they often are.

Seems to me, we as modern Christians are instead called to have "discernment" for which values within our own personal views, truly represent those of Christ own living witness as he roamed amongst us. In what way did his values not represent that of forgiveness for other's sins and taking care of those amongst us who can not take care of themselves? As well as at the very least, avoiding the needless, continual bloodshed of others? What a sad distortion of one's faith, when it instead becomes polarized through political loyalties and influences based on copying ones peers or moving with the masses, rather than withstanding such sneaky persecutions and the ever present false posturing of political propaganda machines.

I am personally sadden to see any Christian friends of mine act as if there is any faith based factual way to believe the GOP is the Christian party, or the "right" choice based on such peer influenced beliefs; versus a good hard personal evaluation of comparing any parties agenda to that of Christ encouragements to each of us.

Get it together people. Think for yourselves, ask the hard questions, understand why our Federal constitution is only 11 pages and our state constitution is over 300! Ask yourself if the "blind" reasons you think you are nominating and voting for a Federal Candidate are indeed relevant to this countries needs?

Vote like God gave you an independent ability to think for yourself. Quit depending on the influence of those around you; insofar as striving to simply feel secure and loyal to your own potentially incestuous circle of influence, congregational fervor or endless amounts of local community or random product sponsored national media. God wants your loyalty focused on the life of Christ, not hidden agendas or those stricken by far less admirable standards and influence.

You should hope to not only make your Christian vote a smart vote, but also the most "Christ like" vote you can personally muster! This may very well mean asking yourself everyday, if the commentators, news papers, friends and even pulpits you depend on are basing their own views on the qualities you know Christ to have died for? Do you know what atonement means? Are you able to distinguish the difference between grace and religion? Do you know how to forgive those who are not perfect? Do you know how to forgive yourself? Are you working on each of these endeavors daily? Are you voting for a candidate which you know will have policies that represent such Faith and values?

Life is to short to not ask these and many more tough questions. Our countries survivability depends on this level of discernment and voting, which must therefor have little to nothing to do with party loyalty or blindly and easily influenced voters. A vote based on the lessons and behaviors Christ taught us to respect and live, must have and far more to do on very personal research and assessments of the character and stewardship of the man, his life, his education, his history and his ability to guide the Federal and World Wide impacts his or her Presidency will have on our country and those beyond its' man made borders. Time to stretch, time to learn, time to pray, time to discern, then time to vote...

Let's at least agree, there are no lemmings in Heaven

When striving to be a "better" Christian, keep in mind...

A dear friend of mine I really cherish, recently posted on his Facebook profile the following statement:
"The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you."

Wonderful Statement! I'm often shocked at the limited bubble so many of my Christian friends have always chosen to live in; as if "the grace of God" had some scary, marginalized, man made limitations. You know what I mean, folks you can barely visit with before they say, "I just want to do (or live in) God's will." I often think, "Are you use to that being spelled out for you? And if not, is this just a continual search that you are on?"

To me, it often means they are not really enjoying today so much as living for tomorrow, in the hopes of a "better" day; one when they will "feel" they have finally "grown closer to God's desire in their life."

Seems to me, by making that a daily "search" or "goal", they are actually missing a HUGE point of the atonement which has graciously freed them TODAY! Point is, their relationship and path with God is as wonderful, grace-filed and rich as it EVER needs to be. To knowingly and constantly STRIVE FOR BETTER; while seemingly riotous in its original context and inspiration; is an AMBITION having much less to do with God's grace and DEATH (the Cross) and much more to do with man's own, somewhat careless, needs or ego.

Think about it - only an ego would tell us that we can be a BETTER Christian tomorrow than we are today. Just a funny notion to me, that flies in the face of God's very presence and therefor unlimited, unknown purpose for each of our lives.

TODAY is what it IS ALL ABOUT! And asking for a blessing beyond the riches of THIS very moment has always baffled me in many ways! But yeah - we are in America! And in this country, "If you work hard enough, anything is possible." That is our motto! ...If I do MORE, I become BETTER or "richer". I think some folks end up confusing that western, capitalistic motto, with thinking their relationship with God, today, at this very moment, LACKS something it will inevitably be tomorrow; if they simply "get closer", "work harder", "live in His will more", etc...

Seems if our walk as Christians were a "guessing game" up to us to "figure out" we would find ourselves a part of a faith; or should I say a RELIGION, since the entire notion lacks "faith" in God's own purpose for this very moment; a religion, with a God full of limits we have placed on him through our own ambition to be "better". And therefor, no real truth or blessing related to who I am NOW at this very moment will be fully accepted, appreciated and realized, if or when I am believing I must be "better", or "closer" or "more in his will" in order to MORE effectively apply his teaching and purpose for my life.

Really? So what God has done today, has some deficiency which YOU will one day fix? Or allow Him to fix?
I know you're trying to turn that around, and say, "No, it is what I have or have not done, which is causing the deficiency."
Oh! So God has limits, when I cause Him to? Cool - Who knew? <- Stated with friendly sarcasm.)

It is just not this complicated! And today is the day God has (or "hath", if you prefer) made for you! Soak it up! Cherish it! Strive no more in the since of expecting a "better" or "closer" love from him tomorrow, or you may very well miss out on your relationship with Him today!

HE DIED FOR A REASON - so anyone, EVERYONE could get, would realize, would understand, how much they mean to him RIGHT NOW! ...not later! Not when they are better! Not when they are wiser! Not when they are MORE holy! "IT IS DONE", let His grace fall upon you and give you peace!

Just take a good hard look at a cross, if this is still confusing to you. Now picture your God hanging on it for you! Now try taking for granted His day, today! The one he made for you and I. Don't get a big ego about where you will "one day will be!" If today is good enough for me then it is good enough for you, and for everyone else as well. Get over yourself - and let Him, His love, His grace into your life as it stands at this very moment.

May God bless you and keep you...

When striving to be a "better" Christian, keep in mind...