As the psalmist says, "In His presence is fulness of joy." The tragedy I see in most religions today is the loss over time of God's presence, and so the inability to teach others how to get there. I dare say "joy" is absent from catechisms because it, and the Presence, are absent in the churches.
One thing I have learned about the Presence. I can't go there with any preconceived notions or prejudices. Why is gender an issue at all? Why is race an issue at all? We refuse to give up our preconceived notions. We absolutely believe we are individuals separate from God, making our own determinations. We therefore CAN'T enter the Presence with Him. God lets every person be who they are; no questions asked or demands made. Religion anywhere does not.
Skye, somewhere in your journey you found the Presence of God and experienced great joy. We can always have that. I experience your joy. Thanks. I love and accept you just for who you are. No questions asked. Not because I am some enlightened guy, but because I don't live, Christ lives in me, and He loves you ESPECIALLY the way you are.
As the psalmist says, "In His presence is fulness of joy." The tragedy I see in most religions today is the loss over time of God's presence, and so the inability to teach others how to get there. I dare say "joy" is absent from catechisms because it, and the Presence, are absent in the churches.
One thing I have learned about the Presence. I can't go there with any preconceived notions or prejudices. Why is gender an issue at all? Why is race an issue at all? We refuse to give up our preconceived notions. We absolutely believe we are individuals separate from God, making our own determinations. We therefore CAN'T enter the Presence with Him. God lets every person be who they are; no questions asked or demands made. Religion anywhere does not.
Skye, somewhere in your journey you found the Presence of God and experienced great joy. We can always have that. I experience your joy. Thanks. I love and accept you just for who you are. No questions asked. Not because I am some enlightened guy, but because I don't live, Christ lives in me, and He loves you ESPECIALLY the way you are.
Thanks for a wonderful comment. So glad you are part of this circle!