It was entirely too late at night – midnight on a Tuesday. I was eyeballs deep in the Instagram Twilight Zone, caught somewhere between cat memes and Bachelor finale spoiler theories. But I’m scrolling, scrolling, and what comes across my newsfeed? But the big bold typeface used only by The New Yorker, “IF GOD IS DEAD, YOUR TIME IS EVERYTHING.”
Obviously, it stopped me in my tracks.
The New Yorker was writing about God.
Reading that headline, I could feel my pulse rise a little bit, I’ll be honest. And so I took the bait, and read the article.
Here’s the thing: The New Yorker is just about as liberal of a publication as you can get. Quite honestly, I wouldn’t even deem it worthy of being used as toilet paper, nevermind a legitimate source for news or information. But that’s neither here nor there.
So with that mindset, I set off to see what the elitist wannabes had to say about God being dead.
The article was arrogantly long, I might add — it took me nearly 30 minutes to read. Like, bro — slow your roll.
But the entire article, at first, left me feeling incredibly cold. And sad.
The author, James Wood, was breaking down Martin Hägglund’s book, This Life: Secular Faith and Spiritual Freedom, which argues that the Christian “idea” of eternity destroys the meaning and value of this life.
It spent thousands of words tearing down Christianity, saying that when Christians “worship God, [they] are simply worshipping what they themselves value, and are projecting those values onto the figment of objectivity they choose to call God.”
Bleak, huh?
I don’t know about you, but I pictured Mr. Wood angrily writing this from an overpriced Brooklyn coffee shop where they don’t have straws, the cups are compostable, and he’s wearing the latest made-to-look-vintage band-tee from Urban Outfitters.
That was mean, I’m sorry.
But I took offense to the fact that he said that the only thing Christians were after was Heaven. “Heaven is the real God of man: it is Heaven [they] are really after.” Claiming that by viewing “life [as] just an antechamber to an everlasting realm that is far more wondrous than anything on earth,” we are missing the point of enjoying life right now. Enjoying the flowers. Loving people and cherishing time we have with them in this life.
Which then spun off into an intricately messy campaign for democratic socialism, because…of course.
But here’s the thing. Sure, this guy made some highly intellectual arguments that he spun with pompously crafted sentences, proving his Ivy League education.
But he completely missed the boat on what Christianity actually is.
It is not a means to a selfish end (immortality). And it is certainly isn’t just a self-indulgent “devotion to the [Christian] community itself.”
Christianity is a relationship with Christ.
But more on that later.
Why did this Wood character feel so inclined to write this article? And I’m not simply talking about it being a side entrance into fringe politics and Marxist theories.
Wood could imperiously headline this article with “God is Dead” — because he knew the voice of opposition has faded into a silent minority.
He titled it that, because he could.
Maybe I’ve become jaded, living in Manhattan — the godless epicenter of the world — but unless I seek Christ out at church on Sundays and during the week, God is nowhere to be found in our society. In our culture. In our schools. In the media.
Christianity is on a rapid, rapid decline. In 2019, only 65% of adults identified as Christians. That’s down a whopping 12% in just the last decade. And those who identify as atheist, agnostic, or “nothing” — have risen 17%.
Those statistics are gut-wrenching, yet sadly, not surprising.
And what are we to do? Yes, evangelization obviously. But in the spirit of this article, I want to offer something else.
We can’t let someone else write the narrative for us.
We can’t just sit back and let someone else define us, or speak for us. We can’t simply accept the stereotypes, like Wood: claiming that Christians are merely concerned with living forever. Or SNL depicting Christians as orthopedic shoe, ankle length skirt and cardigan wearing church ladies. Or the media mocking us as socially awkward weirdos; or bigoted backcountry hillbillies; or better yet: judgmental, holy rollers that reek of self-righteousness.
That is not the Christianity founded by Christ.
And it’s ironic, becuase in actuality, Wood’s not entirely wrong. Yes, Jesus was concerned about eternity — but He was also concerned about this life too. He was concerned with serving the poor, and caring for those in need. He touched the lepars. He loved the children. He cherished time with people, and made sure to break bread with His loved ones.
It was a both/and.
And that’s what was missing from the article.
And it makes sense. The author missed the entire point of Christianity, because He doesn’t actually know Christ — which is a shame, and I pray that he does come to know the Lord.
The point of Christianity is not just to get to Heaven. The point is to live as Christ lived, and follow His example.
And as we see most quintessentially depicted on the Cross, Jesus lived and died for both the here and now, and eternity in Heaven.
He wouldn’t have come down to earth, if it wasn’t important — if we weren’t important. Yes — you, me, our relationship with Him — that mattered. It matters here in this life, and it matters in the next.
The cross is the link between the two.
It is the welded connection that brings the two together, and makes it all make sense.
Sure, The New Yorker may be able to explain away a myriad of topics with their highfalutin, intellectual jargon — but faith is something that cannot be proven by reason. For its very nature is an act of trust in things unknown. Things unseen.
And that’s a risk I’m willing to bet my eternity on.
***Disclaimer: I fully support taking efforts to preserve the environment. The straw comment was for dramatic effect 😉 Peace.
“This is what the Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life.” Ez 37:5
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311 responses to “THE NEW YORKER’s Christianity”
Democratic Socialism. Bingo, spot on, Caralyn. I see blasphemy in his words. I’ve seen those nasty ads on Instagram offering a subscription to their socialism. I left a comment on that ad calling them socialists. These vile people are a serious danger to our country.
Thanks John for sharing your thoughts. I just wish they wouldn’t have had to tear down faith while propagating their political beliefs. Hugs and love xox
That’s part of their agenda. 😑
True
I think even we Christians have cheapened heaven and allowed others to do the same. Where I live on the west coast, it is very beautiful; the weather is nice and you can go surfing almost year round. And when people in my church are asked how they are doing, they respond “living in paradise”. Maybe they are being sarcastic, maybe they are genuine. The cynical/rude side of me is thinking: “So what’s the point of Revelations 21?”
That author certain missed the point of heaven too; heaven is not just a goal, but it is the vindication and restoration of God’s original desire to be in perfect fellowship with humanity. It is a place where a lot of the injustices of this world are fixed. No more eating disorders, depression, OCD, suicide, and all those who got away with murder (literally in some cases) are put away.
It is meant to be a happy place. So if I don’t see you in NYC, maybe we can meet there for real. 🙂
That’s such an interesting thought about cheapening Heaven — thank you for sharing that. You’re right – that’s the point of Heaven!! Perfect fellowship with our creator! hahah yes!! Hugs and love xox
I was just writing about this, got an article sitting hot in my queue ready to go. It goes something like this: The moon is made of cheese.
Don’t believe me? That’s fine, New Yorker. But clearly something is stuck in their head. They don’t want the moon to be made of cheese. They can’t stand that there are people out there who think the moon is made of cheese. The reason moon cheese is an apt metaphor is because, if you disagree, it literally doesn’t affect your life at all. They can live however they want thinking the moon is made of whatever they want. If they acknowledge the moon is made of cheese, well, there’s consequences to that, and we can follow them through to their ultimate conclusion.
But why are they so angry? Why do they feel the need to tear down people who believe the moon is cheese?
Because they aren’t in control. If they were confident in beliefs they wouldn’t care–the same way that I don’t care about what the New Yorker thinks about God. The thing is, there is doubt. And it scares them. And they want everyone to shut up, so they they don’t have to listen to their own thoughts.
If they were really interested in having a discussion about the moon, we could have an exchange of ideas. But they aren’t. They believe the moon is made of spare ribs. But lets say for a moment that they wanted an honest exchange of ideas. Then they might ask questions. Then they might try a little something called dialectic.
The seed of doubt is what is driving them mad. They can’t stand it. And I pity them for it. It’s between them and God. If they ever ask me, I’d be happy to talk to them about it. But I’m going to start by telling them the moon is made of cheese.
AMDG
-Scoot
Hi Scoot, thanks for sharing this! wow – lots of fascinating food for thought here – you’re a great writer. Between them and God — that’s the truth! Hugs and love xox
You’re a great writer. You couldn’t have finished this piece any stronger. It’s all about the relationship you speak of. And yeah, this writer is a humorless, joyless, fake news deep jerkoff, I agree. I love it when you like anything new I’ve written. You emanate nothing but pure blasting light.
saying that. amen – the relationship!! glad you stopped by! Hugs xox
I think people are just writing a lot of dramatic garbage in hopes of getting attention. I had a subscription to the NewYorker for a year but didn’t renew. While I enjoyed the fiction and poetry, there were too many pages of drivel. The Atlantic is even worse! Sorry this upset you. ❤️
dramatic garbage haha i love how you put that — but you’re right, it’s hard to stand out these days, so the more out there, outlandish and boisterous, the more attention! thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts! Hugs and love xox
Christianity did not originate with Christ’s visit to the earth approximately 2,000 years ago. That visit was a reinforcement of the fact God does exist and was here to tell us the way out of this damaged world. The visit is a recorded historical fact. God gives us the power to choose whether we believe that or not and if we decide to work with Him on this earth we are assured of eternity in a better place. If we choose not to believe it certainly isn’t going to unseat God from His majesty and power though He will certainly grieve our bad choice. One thing is for sure. When we face death in this dimension the next thing we will know is Jesus voice calling us to accompany Him to heaven. If our heaven is the choice of pleasure and power on this earth then that’s all we can hope for. I believe our literary genius will have made that choice already but its not too late for him to change his mind. Perhaps the problem is he hasn’t observed Christianity in practice and that is a sad mark against those of us who do believe.
That’s such a great point, Ian! Thanks for sharing that! Amen — that’s the point of free will — what would the meaning be if we were forced or program to love God? It’s a relationship! Hugs and love xox
Well said, Caralyn! Keep shining the light of Christ in the darkness of this world.
Thank you so much Roy! I appreciate your encouraging words! glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Caralyn what you have said about The New Yorker and the fact that it is only fit for toilet paper I thought was hilarious 🤣🤣🤣. The same could be said for some of the papers in the UK😂
Hi Kenneth! hahah oh good, glad my humor is in line with someone else! hehe thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
I have always liked your humour in your blogs 😂
hahahah 🙂 from one silly soul to another 🙂
Yeah 😂
😎😎😎
Wonder why Christians can always laugh at things 😉
We’ve got joy in our hearts baby!!!!!!😎
Reminds me of a chorus “I got the joy joy joy joy down in my heart” 😊
“Down in my heart to stayyyy!” ☺️
You know of it? 😀
Of course!
Ah Sunday school memories 😊
Totally!
Jesus love is very wonderful is another chorus
I’ll have to check it out 🙂
Here it is I hope https://youtu.be/qkNhKXIFA-Q
Thank you!
Nice chatting with you, best get some kip (sleep) as they say over here as it’s 1.40am night God bless 😀
Haha oh my gosh that’s so late! It’s only 8:40 here!! Goodnight friend!
Call me Ken or Kenneth
👍🏼
Well said, dear girl. To those without the gospel in the heart, it is all foolishness. We should always expect these word-salads from the list ones. God’s grip – Alan
Thank you so much! You’re so right, Alan — word salads – what a great way to put it! we’ve got to pray for them 🙂 Hugs and love xox
WOW!!! So much here to gnaw on!! And well done you for crafting this piece!
People talk about God and they never quite get to Satan. He wrecked us and all of Creation when Adam & Eve made a bad choice. They gave him the keys to the kingdom God entrusted to them and…pffffftttt!! Yes, Christianity is about visiting widows and orphans, but WHO MADE THEM WIDOWS AND ORPHANS?? Satan!!! Who made earth such a way stop? Satan!!!
Yes, Christianity is about a relationship with Jesus, but it’s about reclaiming Creation with God. I don’t know about you, but I’m all about getting to heaven and having eternity with God. Even St. Paul said as much when he referred to his “earthly tent” and really wanting to be further clothed with a perfect body in heaven. For Woods to say all we want is to get to heaven is true, but he frames it as trivial. It is not. Heaven is about restoring us to the way God originally made people; PERFECT!! When we desire heaven, we desire to be as God intended 6000 years ago!
Honestly – you’ve met me. I own a mirror. Who wouldn’t want to trade THIS in?!?
We are not worshipping ourselves or our values. We are taking the only deal there is to reclaim what God originally gave us. We are striving toward His values. Our values are two World Wars and countless genocides! Again – we’re after GOD’S values.
There are flowers in this “antechamber.” Agreed. But look around. Humanity is like two guys I saw in Atlantic City; one really old guy in a wheelchair being pushed by a slightly less old guy with an oxygen bottle. We’re all one or the other. We cherish the shadows of perfection God gave us that remain here, but we know there’s better, and God asks us to help drag each other along toward Jesus and heaven.
Well…that didn’t take quite as long as I thought it would. Thankfully.
Hey Jeff! Oh thank you so much 🙂 That’s such a powerful thought about Satan’s role in all of this. You’re absolutely A correct – He is the father of lies. And Yes! Heaven is God’s perfect fellowship with our creator! I love that image of the two guys pushing one another — Yes! we’re dragging each other towards Jesus and Heaven! love your wisdom, my friend! thanks so much for sharing it!! hugs and love to you and your girls xox
I’m glad you found it useful. Sleep tight!
you too!
Caralyn, thanks for bringing up the topic. We are in a cultural war and those opposed to Christianity, the need to be in relationship with God, are angry and destructive. Little do they know that articles that are arrogant against God, cause Christians to pray for their eyes to be opened to the truth. God is moving and a large segment of atheists and others will come to know Daddy God who loves them. Prayer changes heart.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read it!! You’re so right about that – there really is a cultural war going on, and we need to pray for those changes of heart! Hugs and love xox
Hugs and much love. XOXO. The author of tge God is dead is so loud because God is dealing with his heart.
What a powerful thought!! 💛💛💛
There is nothing wrong with looking forward to our future as Christians. Seems to be a lot of hate that we have a future. Sad that there appears to be so many hateful people. Good venting.
you’re so so right about that! there is beauty in that future! thanks so much for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
John 10:10 “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” – Jesus
1 Corinthians 15:19 “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.”
WOW, Caralyn! Just… WOW. That was awesome, C! So impressive and well said, on all counts. If there was ever a drop-the-mic moment…
***Disclaimer: I’m sorry, too. The straw thing had me rolling in the floor! LOL 🤣
oh wow, those verses have so much power and truth in them! thank you for sharing! haha oh gosh, thank you 🙂 haha and I’m glad you appreciated my lame attempt at humor 🙂 hehe thanks again for the encouragement, my dear friend! big hugs xox
So sad. And really, Christianity is all about Christ! Heaven is only heavenly because He is there. And yes, amen – following Him means we do care about this life, too. Especially using this life to witness for Him so hopefully many others can join us in His presence when this life ends. Great post!
Hi Heather! thank you so much for sharing your heart on this! You’re so right about that – it’s all about Christ! amen to that! so glad you stopped by! have a beuatiful evening! Hugs and love xox
You are so right, Caralyn. I wish all young women and men shared your wisdom.
oh my gosh Amy, I am humbled by such kind words, thank you!! it’s a wild and crazy world out there!! big hugs to you xox
As an Agnostic, I admit in the past I have viewed Christians with suspicion, probably due to articles like the one you wrote about here (Wood). I apologize.
Don’t let the media get you down. Keep spreading the truth about yours and other Christian priorities and people will see the true illumination of your faith. 🙂
Thank you so much Eric, for saying that. I do believe and have hope that this world can become a place where people of different beliefs and viewpoints can peacefully exist with respect and mutual understanding. Thank you for being one of those people who are on the side of peace and respect!! you are awesome! i appreciate you taking the time to read and respond! big hugs to you xoxo
Working in Manhattan I’ve seen it decay both morally and decently in recent years. What I’ve done is adapt to a form of active patience with my Faith. In my younger years I would often find myself in arguments over my faith, which in hindsight was amusing. I mean fighting and Christ just doesn’t seem to fit! So now I simply wear my heart (and my faith) on my sleeve. And as difficult as it is when confronted I simply trust in Jesus and calmly respond…which truthfully usually annoys whomever is “attacking” me. I usually like to end it with something along the lines of telling them they don’t have to believe in Christ because He believes in them. My hope is along the lines of what a previous response said. I just want to plant a seed of thought in their mind/heart. It’s up to us to live the Faith everyday, regardless of what’s in front of us. Shepherds never give up on the flock.
Active patience, wow, what a powerful thought! thank you so much for sharing that. and that’s so true – Christ believes in us, and loves us even if we don’t love Him back. That’s free will for ya! You’re right about that – He never gives up! Hugs and love xox
my life is a living testimony to that — He never gave up!!! praise God for that!
Paul Harvey wrote this in 1965. It feels truer today
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=zZK68Jemhm8
I can’t wait to check this out. Thanks for passing it along!
♡ Because Goddess is ALIVE!!! and Fixing ALL The Stuff that “God” FUCKED UP!!! 😆😅😄😃😂😁😀😉😊 2020 is A Year Of The Goddess
…♡♡♡…
It’s so sad to see articles like his. But Jesus Himself said we’d be persecuted for loving Him. You’re right; we have to shine on this Earth and show these people who Jesus, and His Followers, really are. Thanks for this post!
You’re right – very sad indeed. You’re right – and they persecuted Him first. Thanks for sharing your heart on this! Hugs and love xox
Brings to mind what the great C.S. Lewis wrote: “There have been times when I think we don’t desire heaven; but more often I find myself wondering whether, in our heart of hearts, we’ve ever desired anything else.”
Ah yes! Leave it to CS Lewis to really hit ya with a knock out truth punch! Haha thanks for sharing that Rollie! Hope you’re having a great night! Hugs and love xox
Love C.S. Lewis
Yes!
Ah again Caralyn your words and thoughts are treasures You identifies the motive and faulty logic of the author. Whenever the only God there is, is reduced to an object of human speculation, the world thinks it has stripped Him of the supremacy that is only God’s. But Caralyn, what separates you, a true believer from those who are not are your words “I pray that he (the author James Woods) does come to know his Lord.” That is why Jesus was in such close contact with the people of his time. He wanted all to come to believe in him as their Savior. And that mission you are carrying on Caralyn in all you do, despite what others may think, say or write. Keep it up. You are gifted in many things but you have your priorities right. Thanks for your ministry. John
Hi John! Oh my gosh thank you so much 🙂 what a kind note. You’re right – no one or nothing can ever strip God of that supremacy!! Wow, I am so touched and humbled by your incredibly affirming words. Grateful for you. Hugs and love xox
Great post, Caralyn! All our lives we’ve been told not to talk about religion and politics, but today in our culture they have become entwined in a way that we can’t separate. Beside, like you say, I don’t have “religion.” I have a relationship with Christ, and I cannot deny Him and let this culture – and our country – be destroyed by the “politics” of this day.
Hi Patty! Oh thank you so much! You’re so right about that – they’re nearly impossible to separate! I agree my friend! Glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Great post! Well said Caralyn 💗
Thank you so much Tiffany! Hugs and love xox
Preach Caralyn! Many are listening, and I’m praying every one of them are catching every one of your little Truth Bombs here. You rock! (I know I just totally outdated myself with that phrase but couldn’t think of a better one 🙂 Haha <3
hi mindy! hahah oh my gosh you’re too sweet, thank you somuch. i am truly humbled! yes! i’ll join you in that prayer! and haha i say that too! all good in the hood my friend! 😉 Hugs and love xox
This was wonderfully said. In dealing with the atheists that I know, I have to curb my frustration by telling myself that unless you know Jesus, Christianity seems like a “marketing scheme” to those on the outside. Without knowing Jesus, they are dissecting the Christian to find their ‘motivation,’ and Satan always wants to guide them in the wrong direction. With you in Manhattan, at least there is one Christian in the place, and probably a lot more – just silent, and maybe afraid. Thanks for your courage.
hi friend! thank you so much for sharing your insight on this. you’re right about that – i think there are a lot more faithful people who are just private about their beliefs. Hugs and love xox
Well…okay. The New Yorker’s citation and fact checkers are like, really really good. They wrote a book and it’s an industry reference. They rarely print retractions. Their story lengths are at least 4,000 words to include the nuance but rarely the entire scope of an idea.
I agree with you, it is strange they chose this author. It’s interesting, you chose to challenge ideas of well, possibly an atheist. Would it be stranger or more blasphemous if he, believed? In Buddhism, you are alone with yourself before you are in communion. In the extreme, that could be very frightening for someone that is looking for hope. I think about that when coming across humanity.
Another thing, I think your better than Conservative dog whistles. Socialist? C’mon. How do you change minds if not to keep yours open? I would, have avoided that rhetoric. I do think, you should post this to the New Yorker editors there. themail@newyorker.com you definitely have enough clout online.
thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. though i am conservative — moderately so — i like to believe i have an open mind. i believe that there is a world possible where people of all different beliefs and world views can coexist respectfully and peacefully! and hmm- that’s a great idea – perhaps i will! i tagged them on twitter and facebook, but perhaps a good old fashioned email would be well suited for this! so glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
I do disagree. Respectfully. You called Democrats, socialists and Marxists. As if this single voice in a magazine speaks for all of them. This is, disappointing. The rest is understandable in definitely a single voice.
I was reporting on what the article cited. my appolgies if this offended you.
Ok. Hold up, they were in very different parts in the book review of Hägglund’s book. Although, Hägglund himself used Marx to further his argument for religion being an, order. A non religion. Also, using Marx for the deconstruction of capitalism and, the reintroduction of leisure for everyone. It’s kind of, an out there argument that can’t really work in America. We need poor people like, me. We also need the poor to remain in debt and keep consuming, not like me.
I’ve just noticed an uptick in conservative comments online directly linking Democrats to socialism and Communism. I saw you do it here, and I was, concerned. I don’t really care about being right just, a little disappointed. Like, when you used the word, Savage in the plight of a people pleaser. It’s what my people have been described as well, since the continents “discovery.” Again. Disappointed but, not mad. Maybe, I’m just not your audience and that’s fine as well.
Oh – yeah no there a huge huge difference between dems and socialists! The one is not the other!
That’s not what you wrote. That’s not even how it was presented in the article. It is, what Hägglund presented that we do, as believers. To contend, with what every society does as nations this, creation story. It’s, a bit of post grad theology. Divinity, why people believe anything at all.
interesting
When my very Christian parents, evangelize. I question them the same way. It feels like not the best time to be Christian. Sure. That’s valid. Is my responsibility to validation of the culture or, the religion? Every culture divides itself further in promotion of their perspective, they must be right. Hägglund will, promote the absence of religion in an exchange for it’s principles with an absence of hope. Cool. There have been many, pseudo religions and religious based cultures that have not created what even Christianity has created. In another enlightenment period religion suffered a few hundred years ago. Then, sided with slavery and the doctrine of discovery. My culture perished, and that was unfortunate. I do not blame Christ for that event only the Christians of that time.
Thanks for this insight!
You don’t have to agree. I’m the Marxist Democrat Social-communist. 🙄 That’s me, I’ll wear that hat. I’ll still attempt to understand your perspective.
Haha and I, yours!
No. I question, the actions it is not really my place to judge others. I’ve sat in crowds of more extreme Trump supporters at rallies. My mantra in those moments, this is a person.
This is a person – I love that. So true. I wish we all had that mindset
I think some men, do not know themselves so they project their anger. Impotent, to the wide array of emotions we can have in this life. Then, they find someone and lose them if they don’t remain angry. We do not teach, with love all we get is what we see now. I work in the homeless row in Phoenix. My job takes me to rich sides of Scottsdale and Paradise Valley. One is angry for, someone stealing their valuables from a sidewalk tent. Another blames the hard workers for stealing hours on million dollar renovations. Both, blame the nearest person to fuel their fire, me. 😂🙄
Interesting thoughts!
I should, disclose. I’ve read, most of what was quoted in the article. In my, spare time. Also, I sparred in the Yale area and fought in the Northeast. In the, military. Guess, interesting thoughts arise from interesting lives you have similar.
👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
You don’t have to congregate with Yalies or graduate to defend your belief system. Knowledge, comes when it comes. I failed, philosophy 107 three times in college. I had to take it for these forensic jobs I was doing. I stubbornly took it a fourth time.
Fourth times a charm 🙂
I never worried what people thought as long as the work had meaning. It is unfortunate, our generation has established meaning with dollars. You’ve just started so, keep going. Maybe, I’ll see you on the news down here.
Yeah unfortunate for sure
I can see that as, a goal? Maybe, winning the hearts and minds of this generation to define what they value. Aside, a tangent from Kent State’s “Gun Girl,” Ben Shapiro or Tomi Lahren.
If not, there’s always Sinatra’s “That’s Life.”
🤔
Although, I do not see them pursue other points of view other than their network’s talking points. Its also, not as diverse. I mean, White people are great, kinda. 😂😬
I’ve had the argument about life after death, and I’ve been ridiculed for believing, but my answer has been that if they are correct and there isn’t anything after death I haven’t lost anything, but if I am correct and there is a life after death, they have lost everything, it usually stops the argument. :- o)
that’s a great point! what a way to close an argument in its tracks! thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Today’s religion is tomorrows myth. I know because my belief’s are based on what many today call myth, but at one time it was THEE religion of choice for humans. The article you referenced doesnt serve any purpose other than to gratify a hollow life (IMHO). Anyone who understands the power of religion, regardless of what vein the pursuit is, understands the power of faith in god is the ultimate gift to the self.
Many of us who are spiritual find god, we all have different paths. Those who tear the paths down, like this article did to Christianity are lost and incomplete. Hence to reconcile this many chose to lash out and attempt to demoralize others who have something they dont.
Your pagan friend,
Karac
Hi Karac, thank you for sharing your thoughts on this. you’re absolutely right in that faith in God is a beautiful gift to self. Hugs and love xox
Thanks for sharing. Very sad and isn’t it ironic that he doesn’t see how he is seeking heaven on earth? It’s in our hearts to seek paradise, peace, spirituality, but these are from God, not within us. Keep shining your light! 🙂
thank you so much! you’re right about that – they’re from God, and we are to seek His face, and His goodness, in all its forms! glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
It’s possible to discuss religion and spirituality without dragging politics into it. As somebody who has spent thousands of hours in church, on retreats, religious education, etc., I think he has many points and if I look at it objectively, is describing many of the people I grew up around. If you don’t know a lot of Christians who use their religion as a holier than thou shield of righteousness or live like heathens yet see their religion as afterlife insurance, you grew up around Christians very different than the ones I did, or you can’t see who they really were.
As an aside, as somebody who has been a writer and editor at newspapers and magazines for 25 years, the writer can suggest a title or headline, but that’s really up to an editor. This writer may have wanted an entirely different title.
Hi Joshua! I so so agree! i too, believe that it’s possible for people of all different beliefs and backgrounds to coexist in peace and respect! interesting insight on the headlines! thanks so much for stoppin gby and sharing your thoughts! Hugs and love xox
Ok, I love your blog, but lately feel I’m getting too much of a Fox News vibe.
hmm — well i can safely say that i do not have cable haha But, i’m sorry if that’s not what you’re looking for! i have no agenda, other than just writing what is put on my heart at the moment. I appreciate your readership, and the fact that you take time out of your day to stop by. it means a lot :). Hugs and love xox
It’s ok. You do you. I’m just hyper-sensitive to political messages from both sides. I’m living in the wrong time in history I fear.
Gotcha! I feel ya there!
Great post! It is true that, as Christians, our actions speak louder than our words in a culture that looks to discredit both.
Thank you so much!! amen to that! actions speak louder than words for sure! Hugs and love xox
Touche and away! Yikes, wavelengths and dots getting connected all over the place! Go check out what I wrote tonight which was getting at much the same issue from a different perspective of course! Same mess! I’ll be getting back to you after I have something to eat and get deeper into though about this article!!!
THank you so much Lawrence! so glad you ejoyed it! ill definitely have to check it out! Hugs and love xox
Yes do that Caralyn, but you may have before I fixed the text so I hope you don’t mind that if you did and then again maybe you still need to check it; I don’t like errors out there if I can help it but I think it was basically good to see it as is that was why I rushed. And let me know if you can anything! I’m burnt been up since 4 and want to stay up to watch the Twilight Zone now, then I should end up in it for sure, LMAO! I had to make paragraph adjustments to get things to be in alignment but that’s it for now I can tweak tomorrow. Funny some Dots like you doing this article and mine touching on these urgent concerns and I just smelled a skunk around here this very moment, just as I started typing this message, I think they like coming around my home too much or telling me something?! A Nigerian Minister liked my Converging Conversations so much he asked to re-blog tonight and just about this same time one of my sisters who does nursing care in home said the nurse coming to relieve her is from Nigeria and her boyfriend is a Minister. I like when dots get connected like that! Sleep well and watch out for that Twilight Zone.
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Congrats on the reblog!
Thank you Caralyn that was nice of you to say! You know by now I’m only concerned with doing my best in serving our Lord better than I have ever before, by just being open to His nudge or push in any direction He so chooses for me, as a faithful servant. I don’t want to fail Him if I can help it and failing the world if necessary is perfectly fine with me. My sleep deprivation lately is straining me, but, I push on no matter and want to have a clear head when I look deeply into your latest blog so I can respond in kind, and hopefully being as kind as I can! I know it’s a great one from even the quick read of it I had last night. Today I want to really jump into it and I will for you! Have a blessed morning and will catch up later on! 🙏🙏
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Mr. Wood is looking from a secular, hedonistic perspective at what makes a Christian, with his “eyes wide shut” or “tunnel vision” to say the least! As you stated point blank Caralyn so perfectly, it is a relationship, a personal one with God Himself, via Jesus Christ as you and I and countless Christians know. He obviously missed the boat all together and must have fallen off the turnip truck he hitched a ride on after deluding himself with this nonsense his brain churns out like cottage cheese a month past its expiration shelf life. On the contrary, my Christianity and the Gift that God has given to me while I live in the “Here and Now” and not just eagerly waiting to die so I can become one with God in a far off universe that I will be transported to; but rather I appreciate every little minuscule thing down to little ants and even microbes that I know by my faith and study even from a scientific perspective; could only convince me more of God’s presence and existence in all that we know, which is really so little; and don’t! The miracle of life and matter with energy bringing about all of these myriad of animated life forms and the detailed intricacies is absolutely mind blowing and I dare say I enjoy living in the moment a hell of a lot more than this Mr. fancy pants who thinks he is above all of us with his keen awareness of what is going on; and how all we faithful are wasting our precious time! And that I’m stating here unequivocally that I’m appreciating and enjoying every moment more than he ever has his own miserable twisted and contorted sense of reality and who he is in the scheme of things! Now I actually pity the fool and see how he is running away from God and that is a most if not the most dangerous thing any human being can do yet he is doing it wholeheartedly without reservation making him a complete idiot to put it mildly! I think he would do well to grow up a bit more and perhaps go read up on the life and times of say C.S Lewis and many other humans who after running from God and abandoning any perception of the real deal and truth of this life ran back to God as fast as they could, and as Mr. Lewis did became one of the greatest advocates for Christendom! Put that in your pipe Mr. Wood or whatever you smoke out of and see how that feels if you look in the mirror and with 100% honesty after deeply seeking out the things Mr. Lewis did as a Christian turned into an atheist then a devout Christian as well great advocate for the Catholic Church; the see if you still can spew this rubbish and manure. I get peeved because I can’t reason why a guy with some substantial gray matter in his head would go to such length to run off on this exercise in futility and sophomoric gibberish that I would frankly expect out of a rebellious teen or some far Left Wing Socialist in the major Liberal Arts Ivy League Uni. other than being a rat and out to draw blood! No Mr. Wood this doesn’t cut the mustard nor does it even cut cheese, paper or dog shit. And any overt hostility you detect from me if you ever read this is because I won’t accept your arrogance and lack of respect thinking you can lambaste me trying to make a mockery of what has been a remarkable but also very painful journey for me to find my true faith and built my relationship with Jesus Christ! How dare you; and I’m not a violent man at all and have great understanding and compassion but you make my blood boil, and you could be due a sock in the mouth if we were in the appropriate circumstances, say in a boxing ring, and I’m not pro or anything like that, but I would stand toe to toe with you anytime and anywhere you mouse of a man. Like they say in the old tune, “Hit the Road Jack and don’t you come round here no more no more no more no more hit the road Jack don’t you come round here no more!
I have a very good high confidence where my soul is going when I leave his body but can you Mr. Wood be so confident about yours if you actually even think you have one?
Sorry Caralyn I just had to lay it on as I see it and speak my mind as you and others know I do occasionally, this hits a nerve and the bone! I just love the fact that you picked up on this article and then presented this open forum so graciously and considerately; this is so important, very very! Leave the pissy stuff to guys like me; that was so wise of you and thank you so much again. Bless your heart and God bless you and yours!
Lawrence
Thanks Lawrence
Welcome Caralyn.
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💛 Back at ya! Again sorry about my long comment and I may have been getting some frustrations and lack of sleep carrying over into my commentary but hopefully all in all it was genuine and decent! If not I guess I messed up! 🇺🇸 🙏❤
No worries!
Maybe for you Caralyn but I tend to worry to be honest! I’ve stepped in pooh a few times too! Also opened my big trap when I shouldn’t have! 😉 But it does seem like there are too many worries in this world, at least when I worry, lol. 😂
Lollll 😂😂😂
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No worries
You’re a very understanding lady! Good for me because I trip myself up easy enough with my tongue, which actually sounds like it should be an impossible thing to do for most normal people; but who said I’m normal, right! 😂😂😂
Lol
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Caralyn, thanks for the like on “The Salvation Stone,” but just to let you know I was in a hurry again when I posted it and after waking in the middle of the night looked at the blog and found some syntax errors which bothered me so that should all be squared away now, I hope! Relatively speaking all of the main points were covered in the uncorrected version but some connecting dots may have been a bit fuzzy, so I hope now if you or anyone else that was kind enough to give it a like when not quite perfected will understand I really appreciate the consideration even when I really wasn’t totally on cue.
God Bless. 🙏
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I know there will be some errors of some kind but I was racing like a banshee to get it on first then I go back over it!
hahah no worries!
I’m a bit ditzy now so I won’t try offering anything other than thank you and will have lots to say when I can think pretty good! Nite-nite!
Goodnight!
Thank you for that it helped a bit; I feel more rested than I should for hardly a half a night’s sleep! I’ll see how I do through the day! I hope you have a lovely one! 🙏🙏
you too!
Hey. 🙂 This topic bothered the mess out of my spirit to where I had to calm and relax myself. No, you weren’t the problem, but the Wood guy that wrote the article was the problem. Bad enough, scientists are mostly thinking that we, as humans, came from originally being born as an animal (Gorilla or Chimps, etc). That boiled my spirit over to where I chose to reframe from that class and switched to some where wlse in college.
What writers like Wood are trying to do is make easy money for himself off of a topic that really will get him anywhere. The spirit within me has grown to know and believe that Heaven is indeed real. If it wasn’t so, then why was it told to us in our bibles that Jesus ascended to Heaven to be with our Father? I’m getting tired of God being lashed this way. What evidence do they have besides popsicles and machines? God is not a human being, but rather, He is a Spirit that no one can touch.
I’m sorry for going off like that. Hope all is still going wonderfully well for you, Sis. Chat soon. 🙂
Thanks for sharing your heart on this. Yeah it was a bit of an infuriating article. Kinda a low blow if you ask me. Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
We may think of prayer as thoughts or feelings expressed in words. But this is only one expression. . . . Prayer is the opening of mind and heart—our whole being—to God, the Ultimate Mystery, beyond thoughts, words, and emotions. Through grace we open our awareness to God whom we know by faith is within us, closer than breathing, closer than thinking, closer than choosing—closer than consciousness itself. —Thomas Keating
Prayer is the opening of mind and heart – I love that!! Thanks for stopping by!! Hugs and love xox
Sorry to comment twice but this is my take on Christianity/
In the beginning there was neither space nor time nor matter just the spirit of God. Time as we understand it literally did not exist nor did the laws of physics. To understand this you must understand things spiritual. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; All He did was speak “let there be” and there was. The Ancient Greeks and Jews understood, why is it so difficult for us. He that has ears to hear, let him hear. Hawking wrote: “Events before the Big Bang are simply not defined, because there’s no way one could measure what happened at them. Since events before the Big Bang have no observational consequences, one may as well cut them out of the theory, and say that time began at the Big Bang.” Hawkings is ignoring God! We know with more than the mind; the soul sees, hears and understands: we see with God’s eyes, hear with God’s ears, and we understand with our heart and God within. You don’t need to measure God to know him!
Not to worry, i appreciate you taking the time to comment!! And thanks for sharing your heart on the matter! Hugs and love xox
The great thing about Jesus’ concern for heaven was that He was bringing it to earth by his very presence…”the kindom of God is at hand”. What Christians often forget is heaven isn’t just some far off place we go to when we die. Heaven is where the Spirit of the Lord is. God is calling us to partner with Him to bring heaven to others. To be the presance of God in the life of another. This is what it means to live like Christ.
You’re so right! He brought it to earth! What a great point! Hugs and love xox
This is a great post, very well written on this topic. The stats you shared concerning the decline in adults who profess Christianity is a sad one for sure. My theory though, is that in reality it hasn’t been a decline but rather people owning up to their own unbelief. I grew up in the generation that assumed you were a Christian unless you were something else. That something else was typically another organized religion, and usually not atheism or agnosticism. You addressed the author’s lack in understanding true Christianity very well, thank you for that. It is something how often we find these declarations of what Christianity is by those who have yet to encounter Him. I would have some respect for someone that shares their perception of Christianity as an unbeliever. But it is difficult to understand how credence is given to those who declare they know when it is emphatically impossible. This is my first time commenting on your blog, but as a new follower, I have been very impressed with your posts. And thank you for visiting my page. I am hoping to be more consistent with my posts soon. It’s all new to me.
Thank you so much Steve, for sharing your thoughts! Yeah the statistics were really sad. It makes me wonder what the solution is! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment!! Hugs and love xox
I was once one of those elitists, raised here in the tri state with a rigorous jewish education (4 days a week in hebrew man!) but my parents were/are completely not religious at all… I used to have the same mantra that christians are ‘stupid’ and believe in a man in the sky etc.. but, a moment of clarity passed on me years ago, I don’t have the answers, and would be arrogant to think I do, so I respect those who believe, it doesn’t work for me but I am totally open to the fact that I may be totally wrong, the older I get the more the world is a miracle to me, thinking about it I was born right before Roe V Wade and being adopted from a single mother back in 73… I would probably not be here, so something out there, be it god or random chaos got me here, and it is truly a miracle to be even writing on this post. So as a non believer I see how christians are attacked, but like anything else, it is ignorance, lack of compassion, or the over riding importance of self. as a non believer I do get weird looks when I say that if everyone acted like jesus (or at least made the attempt, we all fall) the world would be a better place… and it would. and it is ok to be mean about brooklyn coffee shops…man the coffee is good but man the hipsters are hilarious to look at… I thought the flock of seagulls haircut was dead, I was wrong (spotted one in Sunnyside Queens today…)
Hi David! Thank you for sharing your story. That’s so important – when we can have respect and understanding for everyone, no matter their beliefs and viewpoints, the world will be a better place. Hahah I’m unfamiliar with the seagulls haircut. Gonna have to google that! Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Great post . Sad to say in Ireland the dialogue is non existent. No discussion, no ability to allow the other persons point of view.. The backlash against the Catholic Church is understandable but there is now a vacuum left here being filled with a lot of valueless, directionless rhetoric. Basically you are a trendy lefty with self righteous views (and a compostable coffee cup) or you belong to the ‘uncaring far right’. Keep on expressing your views girl!
Thanks Kathy for sharing your thoughts on this. Sounds like a super tough climate in Ireland! Hang in there friend! Hugs and love xox
Thank you for this powerful blog and making corrections and giving feedback regarding the article. The Holy Spirit has given you the authority to show people and to make them understand that without having a deep intermit relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ it will be in possible for them to see the truth about God word. Be bless
thank you so much Suzette! oh my gosh i am so touched by your kind words. means. lot 🙂 hope you have a wonderful weekend! Hugs and love xox
Absolutely loved your blog. Sad to mention that the “conservative” view is declining rapidly, and it is also true that our actions and behaviour is more important than just saying words. As Christians, we don’t need to get so downcast about all these negative views, but remain strong in our common faith. Great post once again. You can visit and follow (if interested) my blog as well, some very encouraging articles are there… Invitation is open to anyone 🙂
THank you so much Philip! you’re so right – actions speak louder than words for sure. thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
This article deserves to be shared. You nailed everything that’s wrong with this country. The rude and crude nature of judgmental people who don’t know anything. There are no principles or values being taught anymore. It’s all brainwashing from one world view that threatens to break us. You nailed it here too:
“I don’t know about you, but I pictured Mr. Wood angrily writing this from an overpriced Brooklyn coffee shop where they don’t have straws, the cups are compostable, and he’s wearing the latest made-to-look-vintage band-tee from Urban Outfitters.”
😂 that’s truth speak. I loved your passion and knowledge on Christianity and Jesus. I might be Jewish but respect any knowledgeable and loyal Christian with real values and a kind heart.
Oh my goodness, thank you so much Derek, I really appreciate your support. Yes! there is something so beautiful about respect and seeking to understand!! you’re awesome!! Hugs and love xox
Christianity is not just an escape to heaven. Heaven is part of it but not all of it
Luke 18:30 KJV
Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.
We don’t need to argue with such people, it’s a waste of time to argue with an ‘arguementator’
Job 6:25 KJV
How forcible are right words! but what doth your arguing reprove?
We are in an era of gross darkness. Ignorance is one of the major tools that the wicked is using to trap many in his dungeon this end time.
Isaiah 5:13 KJV
Therefore my people are gone into captivity, because they have no knowledge: and their honourable men are famished, and their multitude dried up with thirst.
Christians, wake up! This is a wake up call. It’s high time to shine our light across the world. The souls of billions are hanging on our necks.
Isaiah 60:1-3 KJV
Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. [2] For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. [3] And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.
I know this is an ongoing battle between light and darkness and the devil and his agents – like that of the writer – have been ordained to loose (John.10:10)
You’re so right about that Chris – it is part of it but not all! thank you so much for sharing these verses! Hugs and love xox
Great post. I love how atheists and agnostics create a caricature of Christianity and then proceed to tear down their self-defined distorted version. By the way, it should not be a surprise that such folk end up embracing Socialism. The late Fr. Richard John Neuhaus, Founder of First Things Magazine once said, “”Socialism is the religion people get when they lose their religion.” Where else can they turn. The Nanny State becomes their god.
thank you Buddy! yeah, it makes me sad that people are quick to believe the caricature. we need people to be slow to understand! Hugs and love xox
My words will probably get lost in the crowd but I just wanted to tell you that you have entirely understood Jesus Christ’s message. That you for sharing it so clearly.
oh my goodness, thank you so much for saying that. It seriously means a lot. God is good 🙂 Hugs and love xox
*Thank* you.
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Yeesh, that article does sound bleak!
Though, as someone who works in Manhattan and spends lots of time in Manhattan, I actually think that Christ can be found everywhere (whether it be in Manhattan or elsewhere). Even in people who don’t believe in God, or people who I’m not sure whether they believe in God. It may be hard to see that though, especially when you see a writing like this one in The New Yorker, so I also definitely see where you’re coming from.
thank you so much Brendan, for taking the time to read! i love that – yeah – if you look for HIm, you will surely find Him! this was an awesome note of positivity and encouragement. needed this today! Hugs and love xox
I’m glad that I was able to give some encouragement! It can be hard to find Him sometimes, but He is here, there, everywhere.
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I wish you the best on your journey…
thank you Jim 🙂 hugs to you my friend xox
At least the headline said, “IF God is dead” — apparently, not wanting to take a stand on that issue (just in case). In his book, “Mere Christianity”, CS Lewis writes that denying the concept of God and Eternity is the key to any totalitarian state. I need to paraphrase this, because I can’t find the actual passage quickly, but his point is this. If a person is made to believe that The State will live for 1,000 years but he or she will maybe be around for 70, tops, then it’s a cinch to convince them that they are FAR less important than The Glorious State and are mere ciphers in The Glorious State’s grand plan. But let them believe/understand/know that they will live for Eternity and that a relationship with a far greater Being is not only desirable, but possible, then there’s nothing The Glorious State can do to them — i.e. they cannot be controlled by other humans.
(Digression: Brooklyn has probably changed a lot in the 12 years since I was there, but it is the home of Anchor House, a Christian-based recovery program for convicts, and of two churches where I had some life-changing experiences. Jesus Christ is alive and well there, as He is everywhere!)
It’s worth remembering the words of another New Yorker of a bygone era, the cartoonist and social commentator, Walt Kelly (actually, he was from Bridgeport, CT, but let it pass): “God is not dead – He is merely unemployed.”
Very true — at least there was an “IF!!” Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on this! GOsh, CS Lewis is full of so much wisdom. Powerful thoughts. And yes – I shuldn’t rag on Brooklyn. I have a lot of friends that live there too, and it’s actually a super cool pace. hehe. Love that final quote too. So glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Great blog. Thanks for speaking out! I have used an illustration of the Cross of Christ: the vertical member of the cross is deeply grounded in the earth yet it reaches heavenward. The horizontal cross member reaches out to those who walk upon the earth to give them on one hand life in the earthly realm of purpose, victory, and abundance and on the other hand the sure hope of eternal life.
One other point, the elitist atheist fail to see an important point. If we are only a random biological mass living out our brief moment in the cosmos with no God, then there can be no rhyme, reason, or purpose to our lives! How miserable of an existence would that be? I have joy and purpose in this life with Jesus and a sure expectation of eternal life. Hey sister, we may never meet on this earth but this ole Protestant, Alabama hillbilly is counting on seeing you, my younger Catholic, New Yorker sister in Heaven. See you there!
Thank you so much Harry! So glad this resonated with you. Oh wow i love that imagery with the cross! Powerful! Hugs and love xox
AMEN, sister. God has given you a gift, in your writing.
Thank you so much! Oh my gosh I am humbled by your generous words!! Hugs and love xox
“If you love salvation, don’t you think your neighbor would too?”
This is a quote our pastor says frequently because he teaches the same thing! Getting to Heaven is not our purpose as Christians, it is getting as many people to join us there as we can! Thanks for your writing. It is rarely easy to read a writing of someone you so staunchly disagree with, and know is simply bitter, but I appreciate you taking the time to read that New Yorker article, and then to counter it with some hope! Thanks!
Oh wow what a powerful quote. Thank you for sharing that! I really appreciate your support! Hugs and love xox
Well put. Thanks for this.
Thank you so much! Hugs and love xox
I love the way you describe the true meaning of being a Christian! The last portion of your article is so right on target.
And yet when you get angry at “liberals” make fun of them, say mean things about them etc I always feel very uncomfortable. I’m like, where is all this anger coming from? It’s like watching Fox news.
The magazine article I’m sure was awful…..that’s why I don’t read it.
Yes your posts are wonderful here, it is your blog and you can write whatever you like.
But how do we reach a group of people when we write about them this way?
Thank you so much. Yeah I should probably watch how I speak – I think passion can sometimes be taken as anger – especially when I’m trying to make a joke. Lesson learned. Thank you so much for this feedback – I truly do appreciate it. Hugs and love xox
Blessings!
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I love this
Thank you so much! I’m so glad! Hugs and love xox
Agree to disagree with these people but I would caution you from using the same language to do it.
We’re better than that.
(not better than them)
All the best and thanks for dropping in on my blog. Glad you liked it.
John Ormsby
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this John! Yeah I def tried to take the high road – but i hope my passion didn’t get the best of me! Hugs and love xox
Let’s not give them anything to use against us because we’re terribly outgunned in the media at the moment.
Keep up the great work on your blog, kiddo.
Your Canadian Cousin,
Johnny O
Very true Johnny!
Eloquently written. Interesting perspective. Many make Christianity out to be something it is not. Thank you for allowing God to use you to set the record straight.
Thank you so much Danielle! I agree – it can get misconstrued. Hugs and love xox
Off of the subject, do you have a Fitbit???
I don’t!
Hmmm… they are cool.
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Excellent, sis. Thanks for being brave enough to share the deep stuff and for being thoughtful especially in these times. Got your back!
Thank you so much Mr. Yu! So glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Left you a message on IG. Your expertise is needed. 🙂
Oh awesome – I’ll check it this weekend!
Thank you for writing this! It is sad what the unbelievers have to say about Christ. I know you get a lot of first-hand experience living where you do. I live in the South, and I get a lot of experience living in a very “Christian” area. Sadly, these negative stereotypes exist for a reason. It’s not mere slander — there is a lot of truth to it. Yet. if we really know Christ, as you wrote, we know what Christian life should be like (or we work towards that goal). The best way, I think I’ve learned, to deal with this is to fight the stereotypes by striving to be examples ourselves of trust in Jesus, patience, compassion, and not letting this world get into us and corrupt us. So hard. The North has its issues. The South its issues. Christians of all stripes can unite in the Spirit. Stop fighting ourselves. Stop fighting the world. Be the Light and the Salt. Wait for Jesus to come and set it all in order. God bless you for taking a stand. Sorry for my long (probably arrogant) comment 🙂
Thank you so much Amanda!! I agree – we can all unite in the Spirit!! Hugs and love xox
I think you make some very good points. However, I would caution against using the beginning of an artical defending christianity to tear someone down, even if just for dramatic effect. The thing about the dwindling numbers in people who identify as Christians is that it is actually not a bad thing. There are so many people who identified as Christian’s who were just showing up on sunday to make face. We are in this beautiful time where we are witnessing, quite seriously, the chaff being separated from the grain. While other people are worried about the falling numbers, I am excited that we are in a season where what may seem like numbers are falling, faith is building. Dont worry about the people who would attack our faith, they do not have any power to silence our Lord.
Thanks for this feedback Brandon. Lots of powerful food for thought here! Hugs and love xox
Hopefully its accepted as positive criticism. You’re a very talented writer, and I’d be hard pressed to criticize you on any level. I am just on a strong mission to find ways to combat hatred with love.
Absolutely! 💛💛💛💛
An Opinion of an Old Man.
One who follows the teachings of Christ will find a need for answers by noticing a place for a solution and offer the path to gets results.
One who worships Socialist will offer solutions to needs, offer solutions and offer repeated results to accept their assistance. That may be why there are Socialists Christian and not many Christian Socialists. Great post with much for all the consider. You seem to touch all the Hot Buttons. Great!!!
This is really powerful insight!! Thank you so much!!! Hugs and love xox
You are welcome.
✨💛🥰💛✨
Girl, this: “We can’t let someone else write the narrative for us. We can’t just sit back and let someone else define us, or speak for us. We can’t simply accept the stereotypes, like Wood…”
You are SO right! This really lights a fire under me to show the true colors of our faith.
Thank you so much Janice! I’m so glad this resonated with you!! Hugs and love xox
Very well said. If more people were did in this life what Jesus came here to do, the “here and now” would be full of beauty and light, instead of sin and darkness!
Thank you so much for the support! You’re right!! Hugs and love xox
Mental note… don’t ever pick up The New Yorker 🙂 Ha
It’s a Saturday morning in Au, and fortunately, there are no copies here. We have our own garden varieties, but that’s another story. In fact weeding, that’s a better way of ‘thinking’ about it…
Gardening… outdoors, daydreaming with a fresh breeze, and music on… and then whoop, out comes a weed
Haha thanks David
I find it frustrating to read that kind of material. It is so polar-opposite to where I am in my thinking! 🙂
You have done so well, to engage with it
Same
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‘We can’t let someone else write the narrative for us’. Amen…:
‘If God is dead’, vs. the Apostles Creed… he was crucified, buried and on the third day he rose again. So, he has skipped the creed…
And, much else…
Yes!
Profound post Sis… Love it!
“………but unless I seek Christ out at church on Sundays and during the week, God is nowhere to be found in our society. In our culture. In our schools. In the media.”
Thank you so much! So glad it resonated with you!! Hugs and love xox
I had to read the article in question because, as someone who’s studied religion, I was curious as to how Wood made that transition to “socialism.” Honestly, your review is a bit disingenuous because Wood makes it clear that he’s *reviewing* Hägglund’s book – the whole point of the article. This isn’t Wood trashing Christianity, here, but him laying out what SOMEONE ELSE wrote in the book he (Wood) is reviewing. Is Hägglund’s book worth reading? I don’t know; I hadn’t heard of it until now, and had I the room to add one more text to an already overwhelmed ‘to-do’ list, I’d consider it. I can’t vouch for the validity of his argument, either. But you’ve suggested that Wood perpetuated this attack on Christianity, when in fact, he didn’t.
Thanks for this clarification. I appreciate you taking the time to read both articles! Always good to get another sounding board! Hugs and love xox
This is a really interesting post for me fo read, as my husband and I are currently sitting at a YWAM base in Kona Hawaii getting ready to start a week of serving the teams here. To an extent, I can understand what the author is saying, regarding Heaven being the selfish desire for Christians. My husband and I were just talking about this, and I think, for some, this may be a true statement. I think, especially for Christians who haven’t radically experienced Christ’s grace and the power of the Gospel, Heaven feels like a powerful motivator. I know that’s not true for all, but I think that there may be some Christians, life long ones too, who love the eternity of Heaven, and are learning to love Christ more.
Also, I don’t think Christianity is dying, though I do think people are leaving the churches. I think Christians are leaving churches in search of churches that better reflect the Church, or the New Testament description of the Church. And I think the world is seeing this and running with it. But I argue that Christianity is more on fire than ever before. Perhaps that’s just my corner of the world, and in that, I rejoice. But there is a huge under current of Christians my age that are on blazing fire for Christ, and its wildly contagious. I think we may be on the edge of a powerful Christian revival, which is really really exciting! And you’re right; it must start with relationships.
Thank you so much for sharing your powerful perspective on this! Oh wow what a beautiful mission you guys are doing. That is incredible. Yes! Let’s rejoice in that! Glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Hi, Caralyn. Just wanted to let you know that though I may not be clicking Like or commenting that I am here and praying for you!. Even articles like this when you are continually standing up for God! You keep the love of God flowing!
I have nominated for The Bee Love Award!
Me and God love you! <3
https://gaillovesgod.blog/2020/02/22/the-bee-love-award-2-10-2020/
PS… Say hey to your mom and pop 🙂
Oh my gosh thank you Gail! That seriously means so much!! I am touched!!! And wow!! What an honor! Thank you!!! I will definitely pass along your hello! 💛
<3 PTL! 🙂
🥰🥰🥰
Love this, Caralyn ❤️. We can’t let others write the narrative for us. May we have the courage to share the things that draw us to Christ and our relationship with Him.
And that eye roll meme 🤣
Aw thank you Jenny! I’m so glad this resonated with you! Hahaha I love a good meme! Hugs and love xox
The human race is aimlessly wandering in the “desert” of life just like the Israelites did for 40 years, Caralyn. There is a reason why that story is prominent in the Old Testament. I was just thinking about this earlier for something I wrote in my blog. As Christians, we just have to keep our purpose clear, walk in the footsteps of Jesus, and keep asking the Spirit for empowerment. By our actions we need to keep our lights shining brightly. Ted
You’re right about that Ted! Thanks so much for this powerful response! Big hugs to you xox
Well said, Caralyn! I couldn’t agree with you more. 🙂
These are shop-worn caricatures of Christianity, a straw man (constructed for political reasons in this case) anyone with any sense should see through. But people will believe what they want to believe, regardless of the facts. Which is why I also agree, we need to tell people what Christianity is (instead of what we’re against all the time) and stop letting all the haters define us.
As you said, eternal life very much includes this life because knowing Christ IS eternal life (John 17:3)
Thank you so much Mel! I’m so glad this resonated with you! Amen!! It includes this life too! Hugs and love xox
Excellent article. Thanks again for your thoughtful insight into the message of Christ!
Thank you so much Barbara! Absolutely 🙂 I appreciate you stopping by! Hugs and love xox
“…when Christians “worship God, [they] are simply worshipping what they themselves value…”
Gee, I dunno Mr. Wood, I believe if that were the case, we wouldn’t find it quite so difficult to live up to the standard.
Thanks for the article. Enjoyable read.
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it! Hugs and love xox
You the best.
oh my gosh, thank you friend. YOU da best 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Love it. Preach it, sister.
You know, people attack Christianity because they can. Almost every other faith is either off limits or too dangerous to attack. However, what these secular intellectuals don’t recognize is that Christianity thrives on persecution. So bring it on and watch our engine roar.
Thank you so much Jay! I love that – it’s true! Thrive!! Hugs and love xox
I agree with you that the point of Jesus’ message was not how to get to some other and future place (e.g. “heaven”), but that Jesus’ atonement brought heaven to us and now. That was the message of the early Christians with faith, loving one’s neighbors (and enemies), and acting on those beliefs (read the letter from James)
Unfortunately the church (i.e. Catholic church) was so self-indulged by the time of the Reformation that the Luther’s, et al’s attempts to get Christians back on track lead to a focus on escaping this world to some other and future place. Evangelical Christians have only pushed the process further that we are sort of stuck with either Heaven after death or the Gospel of Prosperity (me, me, me). If anyone has given non-Christians a bad view of Christianity, it is Christians (mis-read many letters from Paul).
You are right. Let’s get back to believing and acting now, not just for some other and future place. Jesus brought heaven to earth. Let’s live it, in love and peace (I’ll pass on the straw, as I don’t use them anyway).
-Bro Oscar
Hi Oscar! Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on this! You’re so right – He brought Heaven to earth! You brought up a lot of great points. Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Many times as a Christian I feel like an outsider looking in. These are the days where we need to be bold and courageous, and different. We have been silent and afraid for too long, and now we see the results. Trust in God to lead us to where we need to be and to say what needs to be said. If we truly believe that God is with us, then who can be against us.
Thanks for sharing that Monteelou. You’re right – bold and courageous!! Hugs and love xox
Excellent post. Thanks for your insights on the article and sharing the love of Jesus boldly on your blog. Appreciate what you do here. Many blessings.
Thank you friend, I appreciate your support. Means a lot! Hugs and love xox
I think the title is intentionally provative and designed to cause debate. Perhaps one of the greatest enemies of Christianity is apathy and anything, which gets us fired up, might actually be a good thing in the long run. There was a great episode of Touched by an Angel, where the guy sang about God being dead. The guy’s wife had patiently tried to explain to him, how offensive the song was. Of course being Touched by an Angel, she had died. God’s angels had come to teach him instead.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on this. The title definitely “grabbed” me – so I guess that it did what it set out to do. How interesting. Never seen the show. Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
I just trjed to read the article so thatb I might make an informed comment. Guess what? The New York Times also had an article titled ‘God is dead.’ January 9th, 1966. Perhaps they roll around every fifty years or so.
Interestingggggg!! Thanks for reading! Hugs and love xox
Sorry no. It was The New Yorker.
Oh! Even more interesting! Haha
*that
I have to chuckle at the comment that when Christians “worship God, [they] are simply worshipping what they themselves value, and are projecting those values onto the figment of objectivity they choose to call God.”
Seriously, without a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, I would have a very different set of values. When one comes to know Jesus, we value what He values, and it might conflict with what we believed in before.
Sincerely, a former socialist.
Thanks so much Michael! I’m glad this resonated with you. Amen. Jesus changes things! Hugs and love xox
New York Times does this regularly. Same headline,’God is dead and religion is dying’. April 19th, 1970. I bet if I went back a hundred years I would find more examples.
I bet you would too. Click bait before the click lol
Yes🤣🤣ou are right I would.
🙂
I have always wanted to be an investigative journalist.
what an interesting life path that would be !
Your interesting blogpost has sent me down a deep rabbit hole. From what I can see Friedrich Nietzche started the whole God is dead thing. I found an ancient lecture by Jordan Peterson. (Gee he looked young) on the subject. Apparently as with most things, Nietsche’s quote is taken out of context and has been used to pummel christians for decades.
I am definitely very familiar with Nietzche. glad this sparked some interesting findings for you!
*tried
👍🏼
As a Christian I understand the distaste and frustration of the article, however if we as Christians were to be completely transparent a good portion of the reasons why these type of things are brought into existence is because of us christians. For years, regardless of denomination, Hell has been used in large to persuade and motivate people into salvation; a great inspiration behind the phrase “saving souls” and “getting saved”. Furthermore, if we, Christians, are being honest about how we are in comparison to the scriptures and stories we use as life examples and guidelines it goes without saying that we fall tremendously short. I can not speak for our brothers and sisters in other countries but here in American we are some of the most powerless and illegitimate Christians to probably ever walk this earth. We don’t come close to the disciples and apostles in the New Testament and are even further from the prophets of the Old. Although the stereotypes do not define us individually, collectively they are surprisingly accurate. We as the body of Christ simply have yet to start acting like it.
Thanks fore sharing your thoughts on this! You’re right – we fall short to the example set for us by Jesus and the leaders in the Bible. Lots of powerful food for thought here. Hugs and love xox
Hey, girl from Seattle have a nice day 🙋🌷
Thanks you too! Hugs and love xox
Yes, yes, yes!!! You hit the nail on the head!!!
Aw thank you so much!!!! 🙂 hope you’re having a great week! Hugs and love xox
When I was in college I had to read the New Yorker, and I had to write a paper on the article I choose. The class was a tough one. I was so happy when I finished the class. Anyway, another great post. 🙂
Sounds like an interesting class! But a tough one! Haha thanks for reading, Amanda! Hugs and love xox
Enjoyed this blog very much. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much Darcy! I appreciate that 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Well said•
thank you! Hugs and love xox
I hardly look at the newsstand, so I didn’t know this copy existed. I, too, would have brushed past it. However, you used it as a platform for your comments and incisive observations. Enjoyed the read. If you have a link, I will post it to my facebook and twitter accounts.
Thanks friend. Yeah – it was quite an article! Hugs and love xox
When you wrote how this writer claimed that Christians are only Christians so they can get to heaven, I wondered if he knew what heaven is. While it is a city with gates made out of single pearls where the lamb, lion, and child play together in perfect harmony, a simple Gospel song defines it more completely. “On land or sea, what matters where? Where Jesus is, ’tis heaven there.” Maybe I am a Christian to get heaven, but if so, then the heaven I am getting is a relationship with Christ Himself that is open to whoever accepts it.
Thank you so much Yolanda for sharing your thoughts on this. Amen – a relationship with Christ! What a powerful thought. Hugs and love xox
Wow, that took a long time to get to the end of the comments! I enjoyed reading this post. Thank you. They obviously totally misunderstand the point of Christianity. Jesus came to save us and restore us to God. Once that is done, we can truly live a more abundant life and that doesn’t mean a selfishly indulgent life. It’s a useful life living according to his example and going through the daily routines of life in communication with the living God Himself. On this earth, we may never have a paradise naturally around us, but the kingdom of God is within us. A non-believer will never understand or know the extent and the beauty of the kingdom that is inside of us, and that’s what’s sad. They don’t know the unconditional, exquisite love of their own Father. Because they can’t see the interior life of a Christian, they can only assume that we are as naturally minded as they are. Too bad. We can pray for them though.
Aw thank you so much! I’m so glad this resonated with you! And amen – we need to pray for them. Hugs and love xox
Imagine if the author got on the subject of redemptive suffering lol
lol – perhaps I will
Great blog! You certainly touched a nerve. It appears there are lot of people who are looking for something out there. Just mentioned heaven in my next blog, waiting to be finished. Everyone should remember when you die you have only to answer for yourself and what you did with your life. You are a beautiful person.
Thank you so much Barb! I’m so glad this resonated with you! Amen to that – we will all have to do that! I appreciate your kind words! Hugs and love xox
Thank you! Very true it needed to be said! The true spirit of Christ indeed is about living in this life to its fullest for Him and for the next. There indeed is no separation between this life and the next in how it’s meant to be lived. That is something Christians can agree on, be they Protestant or Catholic (I’ve been both, raised Presbyterian and turned Catholic). Thanks by the way for liking my WordPress blog post, you can read more of my faith and poetry blogs on #ToDreamers
Thanks Donald! So glad this resonated with you! Amen to that!! Hugs and love xox
Excellent! Great work, my sister and friend! Keep it up! God bless you!!!!
Thank you Galen! I’m so glad this resonated with you. 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Read my comments to Brandon’s Wisdom, Questions About Christianity…
I do not read or reply to blatant racism. But in this case I had to reply. He is not about any open dialogue cause he has all the answers! I am surrounded by lonely, arrogant and mean types in my apartment complex who have the same superior attitude.
It is the standard Ashkenazi attitude!
[…] are very few things that will make New Yorkers stop what they are doing, take their eyes off their phones and look […]
Thank you for the link up! Hugs and love xox