In a world often defined by rigid labels and divisive ideologies, how do we cultivate a sense of deep connection and meaningful presence? This conversation began with a simple question: how can we practice the presence of God in our daily lives? What unfolded was a journey beyond traditional religious boundaries, a quest to uncover the universal essence of spirituality.

God's grace is available to everyone, everywhere. Yet, humans often insist that you must call God by a specific name, recite the right words, adhere to the correct doctrines, and follow the prescribed path. This mindset reduces God to a level that suits human understanding, portraying Him as small, petty, and tyrannical. Do we really believe that God has nothing better to do than to keep a meticulous record of every human misstep? Imagine how long such a list for each person would be!

For a number of months I have been having conversations with Copilot AI about a wide variety of topics. I want to share a coversation that I had with it about the gift of salvation.

I feel like I’m on a really good path now, with a combination of Father Gregory Boyle’s books, the writings of Richard Rohr, and my involvement with The Church of the Park, especially the Village of Hope, and St. Thomas Church.

In this journal entry, I reflect on my evolving understanding of the Bible and faith. From idolizing the Bible in my youth to years of deep introspection and counseling, my beliefs have undergone significant changes. I explore the history of the Bible, the importance of personal reflection, and the value of questioning preconceived notions. This journey of faith, growth, and continuous learning has reshaped my perspective in profound ways.

I often wonder if I belong anywhere.

This morning as I was reading an Internet article I came across this phrase

"Those under 40 tend to be like the student I quoted above. They have had some weird experience of Jesus that changed their life. They left behind aspiring careers in law or media or medicine or whatever and took up ministry, which promises far less money and social prestige, but far more satisfaction, both in this world and the next." 

"....moving at of pace that you feel comfortable with, whatever that is, might be faster than us, might be slower than us. It's about you - it's not about us. {as you continue with these exercises} Come back get a little bit better every time 

For years I have been searching, thinking, and writing of the many aspects of faith, life, and our place here on this earth. Having researched, visited, and tried many different churches along the way, we have been looking at different theological aspects of life and have come to understand and realize the value of people from all beliefs and all walks of life.

In a large sense, I really don't care if there is a god, or a God, or not. It is what it is. Either there is a god/God or there isn't. Whatever I think or believe about it isn't going to change that reality. "What reality?" you ask. The reality of if there is or isn't a God.

Rather than get entangled with arguments for or against the concept of each person idea of god/God, I think it is much more important how we treat one another and how we live our lives. Any view of god/God that is worth anything is going to want us to treat one another with love, honor, and respect.

Accepting the "Faith" of a religion is in many ways much simpler and easier that questioning the status quo to find out what is true.

Many religions have the "Statement of Faith" all written out. All you have to do is just agree to that statement and it is all done, neat and clean. Now, just every time your mind doubts and questions anything, just repeat, "Doubt your doubts, believe your beliefs". You never have to go beyond that.

How many times have we heard someone use the name of Jesus to end a prayer. The thought seems to be that if we close the prayer with “In Jesus Name”, that somehow will make God listen better and make him respond to us. But is that how it works? more to come.