Humans and Religion

I’ve been thinking about something….I know, I know SHOCKER….I’m always thinking. The past two days (probably because it’s Passover) I’ve really been thinking about religion. Did you know that according to The Google, there are 4,300 religions in this world? WTAF?!?! No wonder wars have been fought and lost because of religion!!

Humans are complex creatures, for sure…and by virtue of our simplistic complexity we have been given the freedom to believe in what we want…at least most of us have, anyway. I wonder, though, because of our complexities how many of the 4,300 religions were developed because humans have a need to retain their individuality and maybe a single religion doesn’t quite allow for that individuality to shine through! For example, did you know there is a religion called “Church of Euthanasia” – FACT (well, at least according to The Google). The primary premise behind this religious sect is “thou shall not procreate” – seriously? Well, now that sure goes against the Bible, don’t ya think? Oh well….that’s someone’s individuality (insert shoulder shrug).

Here’s what I think – religion was born out of a need to believe in something bigger than ourselves….there is no way a mere mortal, a silly human….you have to admit, we human’s are ridiculous….could ever create the beauty that surrounds us! Beauty in the Earth, the Air, the Water, EVERYTHING! Look around you and see beyond the horrors of this thing called LIFE and appreciate what you see. Look at that person next to you with the piercings, tattoos, weirdly colored hair and see them for the beauty that they are as a creation of God. See the woman who has just given birth and given her newborn baby to a childless family….see the man who loves and cares for a child that is not of his flesh……even see a way to forgive someone who has harmed you or committed crimes against humanity. See even the beauty in this thing called SIN…..what beauty you’re probably asking…..the beauty of FORGIVENESS.

This writer respects all religions because no single religion is better than the other – just as no HUMAN race is better than the other. See what I did there? We are all HUMANS…I don’t care if you’re black, white, orange, or green…..if you have a heart and a brain, believe in Christianity, Muslim, Catholicism, Judaism, Scientology, or even the Church of Euthanasia – you are still a part of the HUMAN race. All religions believe in many different things….I believe in God, The Almighty, Y’shua – whatever you want to call the Creator. I also believe in the human race and just as I respect God, I respect the human, even with all of our flaws. I forgive those who have trespassed against me and my Humans. As you look at yourself in the mirror, remember that your individuality and freedom to believe in something bigger than yourself – is a gift given to you by YOUR God. Don’t shame others for not believing what you believe….teach respect, empathy, compassion, and love for all that is living.

Happy Sunday, kids!!