Why should you choose Christianity as a way of life?

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

James Dille

We all know this first line in the Bible; however the question we often ask is how and why did he create the heavens and the earth including man? What is our purpose? We have pondered these questions for centuries and I have no more insight than anyone else. But I do have an opinion, which I will offer in as a succinct manner as I am capable.

I believe Einstein’s general theory of relativity is the simplest explanation of how God created the heavens and the earth. E equals mass times the speed of light squared. God being the source of all energy converted some of that energy into mass (matter) having the energy potential, which resulted in the “Big Bang” creating our universe, thus beginning time (which requires change) to measure the process.

God became man in the form of Jesus, to enlighten and bring God’s grace into a fallen world.

When our intellect falls short, we are asked to utilize faith because of our limited ability to understand God’s omnipotence and omnipresence. God has spoken to us through the life of Jesus, scriptures and prophets as to his purpose.

Over the centuries, we have transformed something simple into something complicated. God placed us upon this earth simply to learn what love is and how to live it according to our Lord’s example. We are to love each other and through that process, love our God (who is within each of us) and his universe.

In this increasingly nihilistic world, some question why they should live this life according to the standards set by Jesus?

Again it is pretty simple: Jesus said he is love, and living a life of love is the most abundant life. Living a life of virtue is a life of faith, hope and charity. We are also encouraged to seek justice, prudence, temperance (moderation) and fortitude. If we live a virtuous life, we not only find joy for ourselves but we lift and guide others to follow a life of faith in God.

We must remember God did not promise us we would be free of troubles; however he does promise to be with us and give us strength to endure pain and suffering. In this process, we can find the deepest level of love. Just as the love Jesus showed us by his passion upon the cross.

If you think of your life as a gamble, you might think of Pascal’s wager. If you bet there is not a God, you are risking everything and if you lose, you lose everything. If you win, you win nothing. However, if you bet there is a God, you risk nothing, and therefore if you lose, you lose nothing. But if you win, you win everything. C.S. Lewis once said “aim at Heaven and you get earth thrown in, aim at earth, and you get neither.”

I would ask a simple question. Why not chose to bet on the existence of a loving God, and live a life of love? You will have a more joyful life on this earth, with eternal life to gain, and you have nothing to lose.

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James Dille was educated at the University of Missouri, and St. Louis College of Pharmacy. He has practiced pharmacy in Poplar Bluff for over 50 years. For the last 18 years, he has led a men’s Bible study group at First United Methodist Church of Poplar Bluff, where he is a member.

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Editor’s Note: This is a regular series featuring area religious leaders writing about faith, family and community. To participate or suggest a church, contact us at news@darnews.com or 573-785-1414. The views expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of the DAR.