Nevermind, I'm Not Waiting For August ☀
On occasion, I will post a Christian quote or Jesus thought. But as a general rule, I don’t desire AZspot to be predominately centered on matters of faith. Because (a) definitely I do not have down pat authoritative answers, disdaining those (like James Dobson and other media appointed “leaders”…) who pontificate as such, (b) there are others far more gifted in this regard and (c) I wish not to bludgeon many readers who are not of Christian faith with ineffective and counterproductive pleading, instead aiming to demonstrate by example.
However, here is a lead-in, courtesy of sierracolfer, prompting me to emit a few words:
I want you to break down every single idea you’ve ever had about Christianity. I want you to tear apart each and every ritual, prayer, song, and thought and question it. I want you to think and wonder and understand why you do certain things. Why do you say bless you? Is it relevant today? Why do you pray every single time you eat opposed to praying every time you drink as well? Why pray at those times at all or why not pray more often? Why sit, stand, and kneel? What is the purpose? Why pray before bed? Why not pray throughout the day and if you forget before bed, who cares? Why pray so much? Why not pray more? WHY DO YOU DO WHAT YOU DO AND WHY DO YOU THINK WHAT YOU THINK? Before you crazy people out there find yourself offended (I hate these ridiculous disclaimers for over-offended fools) I am not attacking Christians and I am not saying that I hate anyone.
Why do you say bless you?
Because when you sneeze, your soul can be dispelled from your body, opening you up to Satan invasion. Hence, “bless you” is admonition to ward off that sinister evil!
Seriously, when I say (or pray or think) “bless you” it’s a geniune desire and wish for the countenance of God’s Kingdom. I believe in prayer, and I don’t think it’s incompatible with science. There is a great deal we don’t know about how the mind works, and regardless of your faith affiliation or spiritual beliefs, peace and other benefits can be derived from repeated positive affirmations.
Is it relevant today?
I’d say it’s a timeless and universal deed relevant yesterday, today and tomorrow. In times of scarcity and plenty. Through bouts of joy and sadness. In episodes of celebration and persecution.
Why do you pray every single time you eat opposed to praying every time you drink as well?
I wish I could engage in ceaseless, continuous prayer but honestly, there are times I consume a meal without pre-prayer. Always though, I want to be aware of God’s presence, but I am broken and the goals and tasks I chart out for myself are not always fulfilled.
Why pray at those times at all or why not pray more often?
Again, the aim should be to pray early and often, not just at prescribed moments in set locales.
Why sit, stand, and kneel?
No need to. Meet God wherever you are. He (or she) is a big God. I don’t believe there’s any special requirement need. However is most comfortable for you (well, hopefully, without offending fellow brothers and sisters).
What is the purpose?
To put you in alignment with the highest forces in the universe. To solidify your thoughts. To gain purity of the heart. To firm your resolve. To find inner peace. To thank someone or something for the beauty in life.