I have always been thinking of the different ways in which Christianity is taught, and whenever I find one way that makes it a wider blessing than any other, I cling to that as the truest--I mean that which takes in the most good of all kinds, and brings in the most people as sharers in it. It is surely better to pardon too much, than to condemn too much.
-- George Eliot
Sadly, the "religious right" folks don't see it that way at all. They seem to prefer to err on the side of condemnation and I see that as genuinely tragic.
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I agree 100% I have been involved with faith formation at my Church for many years, both children and adults, and I have seen first hand the results of fear-based education. Sure, it's easy to control people using fear but it is not Jesus' way. He took a risk, loving us unconditionally and giving us free will. But he wants our hearts, freely given in love, not our obedience because we are afraid. It is now so beautiful to see the transformation in people when we teach them love rather than fear. Gazing at the crucifix, one does not see fear....only love. When people's hearts are open, they can see this and understand. The eyes of the heart are what comprehends thiss.
ReplyDeletelovely elli...i'm snitching a piece of this....
ReplyDelete"Sure, it's easy to control people using fear but it is not Jesus' way."
ReplyDeleteI really like what you say here, Anonymous, and, of course, I completely agree.