Our Father.

One of the theories of life on earth maintains that God is somehow involved in everything that happens.

"God is Sovereign." for example.

This is a close relative of Prosperity Theology which says that what we experience on earth is the direct result of God's approval or disapproval.

These theories claim that God is in control.

But the Book of Job challenges these ideas.

And most people realize that what we experience does not reflect Natural Justice.

I would say that what we experience on earth is the result of people acting out of free will.

God does not intervene unless called upon.

And God does not smite or punish evil.

"Why do the wicked live on, reach old age, and grow mighty in power? Their children are established in their presence, and their offspring before their eyes.  Their houses are safe from fear, and no rod of God is upon them."  Job 21:7-9 (NRSV)

So what is God's way?

Jesus said, "'I have come to call not the righteous but sinners,'"  Mark 2:17c (NRSV)

Jesus always says, "'your sins are forgiven.'"  Mark 2:5 (NRSV)

God's way is the way of forgiveness.

The way of mercy.

The way of Love.

And His Love is for everyone.

Not just the righteous or the good.

For all are His children.

And He is our loving Father.


[Scripture quotations (marked NRSV) are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission.  All rights reserved.]

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