Truth.

I've been thinking a lot lately about the concept of truth. From a post-modern perspective truth is an elusive concept. It is something that has no "foundation" for lack of a better word; a completely malleable idea that is dependent on the individuals' life, experiences and education. I can imagine there are some things that are not subject to this, such as water always being 2 hydrogens, one oxygen. While we as humans have deemed those elements those things and given them that arbitrary numerical value, the fact is still that those elements when combined in that way produce water. However, this is more a "truth" than "the truth." In short, what post-modernism seeks to do is lay question to "Truth." "Truth," with a capital t takes on a new realm. It is something that is seen as factual, never changing and solid. That there are no "grand narratives" implies that any sort of text, ideology, or belief system is no "Truth" and thus can be "right for the individual" but not for the collective. This is where I saw myself falling, in terms of my views on the world.

When it comes to Jesus Christ however, this doesn't quite hold. Here's what I've come to believe, or in actuality, rediscover. Whatever my thoughts on "truth" or the world may be, however much they may be contingent to my leaning towards post-modernism, I can't do that with Jesus Christ. When I am faced with the reality that is Jesus's death and resurrection, there needs to be a decision made. It is either true, or it isn't. If true, it should radically change our frame of mind, our life, our values. It should alter us in a way that makes us free. Free from the influences of darkness and sin, free to be people how are actively engaged in this thing called life. Free to be "servants to all." Free to love God without abandon.

A couple of months ago, the pastor of the church I was attending gave a sermon on foundations. He said that the foundation of our lives should be the death and resurrection of Jesus. He emphasized the resurrection aspect because, without it, Christianity is without any value. If all we have is a man dead, or at best a God dead, then our faith is literally dead. Not metaphorically, but literally. But, with the resurrection, Jesus conquered death and gave us life. Spiritual life and earthly life to the fullest. We can take part in this, if we only believe.

I've gone back and forth for the past few years about what I believe. I have come to realize that I didn't want to believe, not because I knew it wasn't true. It was just more convenient for me to not believe. The Truth is that Jesus died for our sins, to restore us to relationship with God, and through His resurrection all this was put into motion. Death, not the physical kind, but the spiritual kind, is conquered. We need not fear about what happens when we die. Our souls can now live in full communion with God, through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. When it comes down to it, my life is fuller, richer, and much more satisfying when I don't deny the Truth, but when I embrace it.

Where do I go from here? I honestly have no clue. I know that I have the foundation, the starting point, but that's just it. It's my starting point! I would like to invite anyone who reads this blog to comment and give me your insight. I would like this to be a place of discussion, a place where we can "work out our faith" together. Peace be with you all.