Reply #28: My training is not in [View All]

theology obviously. In fact, when I see any discussion of sacred text, it feels like people are describing their dreams. I'm sure it means something to them, but it's lost on me. And I think that's just fine. In fact, that's the way it should be.

My training is in art, and I have a fair understanding of how symbols and imagery affect people. The vast majority of religious organizations that I am aware of have been reduced to little more than idolatry in the practice of their faith. That's why it's good news to hear there are others like yourself who are reinterpreting their faith into something that is not so easily turned into a product or used to suspend people's rationality to gain power over them. I wasn't aware of it, and as far as I'm concerned, some's good and more's better.

You're right. This thing is a moving target. The danger is from those who would codify it into something from which they can profit. The best way to make money from something is to clearly define it and claim it for yourself, and those who would profit most from it least want it to change. I wondered in another post whether Christian theology had jumped the shark when the Gutenberg bible was printed, and maybe I was fulla beans. Wouldn't be the first time.

I know that there are a lot of intelligent, well meaning and thoughtful Christians running around loose out there. If they can right the ship of Christianity good on 'em. What I see in my travels are religious organizations that have way too much economic and political power, and they make me nervous. And I will continue to condemn, cuss, berate, and belittle that bunch at every opportunity.

I should probably reflect myself here, but what fun is that? Of course we're on the same side. We're both human, and we're both willing to hear each other out. That's all it takes.