If we understand reality to be instantiated by One Creative Force that is infinite in goodness, then we will feel nothing but gratitude toward The One and nothing but love for all the creatures The One has chosen to create and sustain. And, our behavior will reflect that gratitude and love. That is what I think it means to be a believer. And anyone who so understands/believes is already an occupant of a perfect garden. Such belief IS the heavenly reward. To understand reality to be chaotic and not subject to regulation by one infinitely benign force, that is to posit a multiplicity of creative forces. It is to be a polytheist. That is to occupy a corrupted and hostile environment. To so understand/believe is its own hellish punishment. Judgment is immediate. Heaven and hell are not remote. It all depends on what we believe/understand. Judgment is not based on our behavior. However, our behavior can and does effect our belief. It will be almost impossible for us to see the inherent goodness built into reality if we are engaged in hostile behavior. But of course, such hostility will itself be caused by our failure to see goodness. We must pray for a deeper vision. Failing that we must pray to be given such a prayer. Or rather, pray to see that such a prayer is already there in the very deepest center of our hearts. Let us find that flame of hope and faith. Let us shelter it, savor it, and be guided by it.
Posted on: Tue, 16 Jul 2013 12:18:00 +0000
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