I was recently criticized by a couple of Fillmore County Journal readers for not being Christian based on a commentary I wrote. As is often the case with religious zealots, you assume that my beliefs being different than yours (Christian) is a reflection of my not understanding Christianity and not having studied the Bible. It is arrogant indeed to think that if I just knew more or studied more, I would believe what you believe. Let me clarify that I went to a fundamentalist Christian church between four and five times per week growing up. I have read the Bible cover to cover three times, read the Bible after each meal and before bed all my growing up. I took religion classes in college. So I would say I know the Bible better than 90% of the people who call themselves Christians.
I have also studied most of the significant world religions. I understand why people create religions and the role religion plays in fearful people’s lives.
I would agree that Jesus was a gifted and benevolent teacher. He showed compassion to the poor, those of different races and nationalities, different religious beliefs, the mentally ill and those at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder such as outcasts and prostitutes. The only time he showed intolerance was with the capitalists (money changers). I would agree with most of his teachings. Having said all that, I have personally decided to reject the idea of imaginary friends with magical powers.
I along with the Constitution advocate for freedom of religion. That also means freedom from religion. I support your right to believe in whatever religion you choose. I also support the idea that public policy must be free from religious influence. If it is influenced by a particular religion then others no longer have freedom of/from religion because they are impacted by that policy made by a particular religion. It is difficult to think of something more dangerous than the belief that God is on your side. That is the thought process that justifies hate crimes, starts wars and gives rise to the arrogance of feeling superior to other races, religions, or lifestyles.
We must quit confusing beliefs with facts and reason. People can believe anything, that doesn’t make it true. A friend of mine has said that being agnostic is the only intellectually honest position; none of us know for sure. Can we at least be that honest with each other? You may choose to believe in an imaginary friend with magical powers and I may not.
Is it possible we are responsible only to ourselves, our fellow human beings, and the earth we depend on for our lives?