ericbushby wrote:Good on you Henry.
I`m not with you, but I respect you for coming on here and stating your belief.
You are the first one.
Eric in Burnley
Thanks Eric - it isn't the first and likely won't be the last time I'm odd man out!
I should add, though, that I acknowledge that "organized religion" has been responsible for some very real atrocities, at both corporate/societal levels (eg crusades, inquisition) and individual levels (eg child molestation/abuse) - and so I understand why some are turned off by either personal experience or by what they see and perceive. I also recognize that we too often come off as holier than thou jackasses. I sincerely apologize to all of you who have experienced or seen or perceived some of the ugliness done in the name of Christianity. In my opinion, those of us who say we follow Christ need to recognize and atone for malevolent actions done in the name of our faith.
To be sure, organized religion and churches are human institutions and subject to the same human flaws as any other group or organization (we Christians are every bit as sinful as non-Christians) - but inasmuch as we proclaim the "good news", I also agree that religion and churches should be held to a higher standard. To be a "light on the hill", not a burning cross on the hill. But religion's flaws are further evidence, to me, that we need a God that can carry the burden of our flaws and inadequacies, that human effort alone cannot reconcile humanity with itself or fix all issues or conquer all division, etc., etc., etc. My faith makes me 100% confident that a God exists that is fully capable of this and much more, and what's more that His plan is in action even now, even when I cannot see it directly in the too frequently divided and ugly world around me. That is the great hope and joy and expectation for me and why I am a part of the Church - and why I said earlier I'd find this world depressing and rather hopeless without faith.
Sorry for the lengthy addition, and feel a little odd having written it given the forum we're on. To be clear, I have no intent of forcing this onto anyone or of debating beliefs, but as the topic was started and has had some response it seems there is at least some curiosity and interest in learning and discussing where others place their faith, hope, confidence, etc. Pretty cool even if unexpected, and I'm open to listening, learning, and contributing if the thread continues.
But for now, I've got an engine to get back together and lots to learn from the experts here about all things Lotus!