When we get caught in this form of self-righteousness, we are actually working against the work of Christ in our lives. Once we accept our position of being seated at the right hand of Christ...
Again, well-put, Dr. Phinney. "Religion" has no power, relationship with God and Son has power, as it allows us to access Them 24 hours a day, regardless of the state we are in. I am surprised to hear of your personal struggles, Dr. Phinney, as you always seem so stable and advanced in this faith! I am almost strangely comforted to hear that you also struggle with the narrow path. This is a very difficult faith to follow...but just knowing other Brothers and Sisters in Christ go through their own inner torments and difficulties, makes it easier to keep going. With my own past being so raw and chaotic, the fact that God would take back this ragged Prodigal, "fallen on His porch" after 35 years of rebellion, that is an astounding fact! The Prodigal Son is my favorite Great Master painting, by Rembrandt. The tenderness of the Father welcoming his wandering son, the sheer magnitude of the sorrow of the Prodigal after his riotous chaotic life, the incredulity that we are welcomed back even covered in dirt and grime, this is unlike any other faith. Thank you, Dr. Phinney, for sharing this personal and primal journey with the rest of us. I am encouraged. Wendy
Again, well-put, Dr. Phinney. "Religion" has no power, relationship with God and Son has power, as it allows us to access Them 24 hours a day, regardless of the state we are in. I am surprised to hear of your personal struggles, Dr. Phinney, as you always seem so stable and advanced in this faith! I am almost strangely comforted to hear that you also struggle with the narrow path. This is a very difficult faith to follow...but just knowing other Brothers and Sisters in Christ go through their own inner torments and difficulties, makes it easier to keep going. With my own past being so raw and chaotic, the fact that God would take back this ragged Prodigal, "fallen on His porch" after 35 years of rebellion, that is an astounding fact! The Prodigal Son is my favorite Great Master painting, by Rembrandt. The tenderness of the Father welcoming his wandering son, the sheer magnitude of the sorrow of the Prodigal after his riotous chaotic life, the incredulity that we are welcomed back even covered in dirt and grime, this is unlike any other faith. Thank you, Dr. Phinney, for sharing this personal and primal journey with the rest of us. I am encouraged. Wendy