Ethics (6)
ABOUT UNBELIEF
We all believe we exist ("I think therefore I am."). There is common recognition of the physical world -- of people and planet.
The difficulty is the metaphysical mystery: What caused the cosmos? What's life all about? We desire meaning and purpose in life.
The scenario that offers the most hope is the story of the love revealed through the life and words of Jesus. Some do not accept the gospel accounts of his miraculous birth and resurrection. But whether fact or metaphor, or part of both, we find in this historic drama the greatest wisdom and love -- revealed through the example of an ideal family.
Joseph, the father, was a man who led and loved. Mary was a woman who loved and led. Jesus was a child who listened and showed unlimited love which he accredited to his heavenly father.
Ever since, the greatest benefactors of human welfare have been those who believed what Jesus said and did -- or were influenced by the record. (Recent examples: Mahatma Ghandi, Martin Luther, Jr.)
I cannot imagine the source of the cosmos and the love at work in its chaos being inferior to me, and I am conscious of and concerned about what I create. The source of all must be the ultimate leader, conscious of HIS (father=leader symbol) creation.
While the mystery remains I can no longer reject belief. To do so would be illogical.
This belief does not "limit the spectrum." It broadens the spectrum. Jesus says, "Walk in the light and more light will be given."
John McConnell
July 16, 1996