Not only in the troubled times! In the good times it might be even more important to find inspiration in the teachings of Jesus Christ as recorded in the gospels!
I've been brought up Catholic, didn't really understand it other than just parroting whatever my parents and teachers told me. Then I sort of strayed away from Jesus, when I became and adult, as did many people of my generation.
Only a few months ago, did I decide to buy a bible (King James Version) after realizing, that the only thing I know about Jesus Christ, is whatever people had told me. I became interested in the historical Jesus: Did he actually exist? Then came to understand that actually, yes, all historians agree, and the gospels themselves which were written by different followers, at different times and different geographical locations, mean that from a historians common sense perspective, a lot of what's in them (if not all) is most likely accurate. I started reading the Gospels, especially Jesus's own words (as I really don't trust anyone else at this point), I was baffled and amazed. Jesus is the meek softie people often make him out to be, he was a fucking badass, the biggest fucking badass ever. I'm in complete awe, and absolutely love Jesus. Jesus is king. I am not worthy of him, I know I never will be, if I can live my life even remotely living up to his ways and core teachings...
I can recommend anyone, ignore all the bullshit, and read the gospels, over and over, multiple times. It's the only way.
My thinking too.... the header to my post was meant as one of support for those currently struggling with depression, substance abuse and hopelessness. To tell them that it's a weight the Redeemer with carry for each and every one of them. But yes you are so right. Jesus of Nazareth, not only was and is real, he was also as you say a monumental badass. He was the very first Deplorable (of the Roman Empire) a radical who preached love and faith and was seen as a huge threat when more and more early Christians flocked to him. Faith in him is so nuanced and forever evolving there is no end to it. A gift that forever gives. Thank you for taking the time to witness to your faith. It was soul affirming.
Not only in the troubled times! In the good times it might be even more important to find inspiration in the teachings of Jesus Christ as recorded in the gospels!
I've been brought up Catholic, didn't really understand it other than just parroting whatever my parents and teachers told me. Then I sort of strayed away from Jesus, when I became and adult, as did many people of my generation.
Only a few months ago, did I decide to buy a bible (King James Version) after realizing, that the only thing I know about Jesus Christ, is whatever people had told me. I became interested in the historical Jesus: Did he actually exist? Then came to understand that actually, yes, all historians agree, and the gospels themselves which were written by different followers, at different times and different geographical locations, mean that from a historians common sense perspective, a lot of what's in them (if not all) is most likely accurate. I started reading the Gospels, especially Jesus's own words (as I really don't trust anyone else at this point), I was baffled and amazed. Jesus is the meek softie people often make him out to be, he was a fucking badass, the biggest fucking badass ever. I'm in complete awe, and absolutely love Jesus. Jesus is king. I am not worthy of him, I know I never will be, if I can live my life even remotely living up to his ways and core teachings...
I can recommend anyone, ignore all the bullshit, and read the gospels, over and over, multiple times. It's the only way.
My thinking too.... the header to my post was meant as one of support for those currently struggling with depression, substance abuse and hopelessness. To tell them that it's a weight the Redeemer with carry for each and every one of them. But yes you are so right. Jesus of Nazareth, not only was and is real, he was also as you say a monumental badass. He was the very first Deplorable (of the Roman Empire) a radical who preached love and faith and was seen as a huge threat when more and more early Christians flocked to him. Faith in him is so nuanced and forever evolving there is no end to it. A gift that forever gives. Thank you for taking the time to witness to your faith. It was soul affirming.