LRC, Houston - the weekends-free church in Houston, Texas

Who has not heard that lead statement? But, who has heard it spoken or embraced by the church? Almost every church and or denomination feels that they have a copyright on God, religion, and all things spiritual. The church is not only alienating ALL those other churches that are wrong in their doctrine, but the church is alienating all those loving, tolerant, and spiritually seeking individuals who are looking for dialogue and conversations.

As I look back over my spiritual journey, one thing is clear. My views are changing!

That in itself should be pause enough for me to not get too riled up over my doctrine, hardened in my belief structure, or super-sure about what I embrace today. I freely admit that if I err it is because of several reasons. And probably more that I’m not aware. Don’t let the ego control life.

First, I always see God as BIGGER than most. I have a HIGHER view of the power of God. I see God’s will, purpose, and power greater than our free will. That power may not manifest itself in this third dimensional world, but it will in the fourth dimension. God will win EVERYONE over in the end. Love is that powerful and God is love.

Second, I go DEEPER than just the black print on white paper, or even red print on white, holy paper (whatever that might be). While the Logos word is sacred to me, it’s not infallible and too many use the written Word to beat people over the head and pound their views into people who don’t want the confrontation. In other words, I have a place at the table for both the Word and the Spirit. And, like Jesus who said many times in Matthew, “You’ve heard it said (translate it’s written in the Old Testament), but I tell you something differently.”

Third, I interpet most stories in the Bible as METAPHORS and not LITERAL. Most have an inferior concept of metaphors when in all actuality a metaphor is MORE than facts, it’s TRUTH. Deciding which story is a metaphor and which is literal must get counsel from the Spirit of God. Start with a good and wise teacher, but add the Spirit’s discenrment for good measure.

Fourth, I adhere to the principle that LOVE is the greatest force in the world. Intellect is very important but people don’t CARE what you KNOW, until they KNOW that you CARE. WSe just need to accept the unconditional love.

Why would we think that we know-it-all?

To err is human and to forgive is divine! Where’s the forgiveness?