Let me start by saying, for those of you who didn’t know, over the past 10 years or so, I have been deconstructing and redefining my faith. Those who do the math will likely understand why.
After watching a video that came up in the feed on one of my social media networks, I felt the need to respond. So, as is my way, I thought it through, wrote it out, edited it multiple times, lost a bunch of sleep, and posted it here on my website, instead.
I lost faith in most people that say they are Christian. I have lost faith in most religious institutions. I have lost faith in many of the biblical interpretations that I was taught. I have seen too much to believe in them anymore.
…but I haven’t lost faith in God because I know what it feels like to have ᎤᏁᏝᏅᎯ (the Spirit) dwell in my flesh. I know what it feels like to see with new eyes and to hear the guiding voice of a loving and patient creator.
I no longer believe that every single part of the bible is inspired by God, or that those who wrote, translated, and assembled it were beyond reproach. I know too much about what was included and removed, in order to center men and diminish the roles of women. I know that scripture was altered and manipulated through additions and selective translation. I have read historical accounts of how it has consistently been used as a tool of evil men, to control others and gain power and/or personal wealth. I have also seen it, throughout my life, with my own eyes. The Bible, in all its iterations, has been used to justify horrific crimes of murder, genocide, torture, rape, conquest through destruction, forced marriage, theft, segregation, and slavery.
…but I believe in the teachings of the brown-skinned son of a carpenter, who was willing to die to show the people that they had the power all along, that the power of love is stronger than hate, than institutions, than laws.
I believe in the words and actions of a man who taught that unmerited grace, kindness, and forgiveness aren’t something you hold onto. Like wealth, they are things that should be shared with all those in need. I believe that “the kingdom of God is within you” and wise people are those who, upon discovering the key, unlock the doors, throw open the windows, and invite everyone to the table.
~ elr
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