Christians believe that one line from the Bible proves that Jesus Christ created ‘Christianity.’ This would be an error. When Jesus was with Peter, He said “upon this rock, I will build my church.” It was not a literal expression. He was exulting Peter to spread His philosophy of peace and love.

Reading the Bible, I’m uncertain as to the intentions of Jesus Christ. I’m not positive that He believed in organized religion.

What I believe in is ‘spirituality’ as it is defined: “The ​quality that ​involves ​deep ​feelings and ​beliefs of a ​religious ​nature, ​rather than the ​physical ​parts of ​life.” Spirituality cannot be taught; it must be learned. It is a daily effort to improve ourselves. Religious belief does not require ‘organized religion.’ Religious beliefs are personal and result in a loving and compassionate attitude towards all living things; all the creations of a God.

The most important quality of human beings is freedom of thought. By ignoring emotions and using our intellect, we can achieve a higher level of consciousness. What we don’t need is another man or woman behind a pulpit telling us how we can achieve this level of spirituality.

Included in this higher level of existence must be the refusal to judge one another. Our purpose is introspection, not the condemnation of how others choose to live their lives. Jesus Christ told his followers “judge not lest ye be judged.” Those who claim to be Christians cannot truly be followers of Jesus Christ if they choose to ignore His teachings.

Our founding fathers believed that the first amendment was a declaration of the most important rights of our nation’s people. One of these rights is the freedom of every individual to practice the faith of their choice, or none at all. Some in our nation would force all of our people to be members of one faith. They are not only immoral; they are in opposition to the first amendment.

Spirituality must be personal; religion should not be included in our government; it cannot be a national issue.

My beliefs are mine alone, and I will not judge others. I believe that this philosophy is paramount if someone claims to be a true and patriotic American.

On my next birthday I will be 70 years old and I continue to strive for a higher level of consciousness. Age does have its blessings. I have lost the anger of my youth. I think before I act, and do not make rash decisions. But I continue to have my faults, and I do not need another person to point them out to me.

Op-Ed

By James Turnage

Photo Courtesy of fusion-of-horizons

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