What do you think? Has the pandemic changed IT?

Well, we are entering Holy Week, a time when Christians all over the world celebrate! But there are many different perspectives and practices for those who claim to be Christians.

These are some of the versions I have heard when people were asked if there is a God in their life:

1. Absolutely not! Some people believe that all we have is today and that there is no afterlife. Therefore, the responsibility for one’s success and failures rests with each person who makes decisions and then when it comes time to die, they just go to sleep.

2. I have my family’s denomination. Reginald Bibby, author of “Fragmented Gods” reports that many people see religion as a la carte services only for weddings, funerals and baptisms. When asked about their faith, they often respond by naming their grandparents’ denomination.

3. I used to believe but… It’s hard for some who think God should give them everything they want and then realize that’s not how things work. Many wonder how God can be trusted in a world where children suffer and die young, disasters strike, and people fail in their efforts.

4. I wish. Crossed fingers and wishes would imply that there is a God, but not everyone has personal experience to verify this. However, deep down they believe that someone is watching.

5. I think there is “something” out there: It is hard to imagine a God without arms, especially for those who have had a human father who was not loving. Many cling to the idea that there is a power greater than themselves but don’t call it “God” or don’t have the words to describe it.

6. I don’t go to church: Unfortunately, churches, which were not only a spiritual environment but also a social center for communities in the past, are not as crowded as they were in the past. However, judging a person’s faith should never be based solely on their church attendance.

7. I don’t really know my Bible and I’m tired of the way people act: those who don’t investigate the possibilities offered by their iPhone miss out on many fascinating features. It is the same with not knowing the Bible. This limits the interesting lessons and wisdom that can help navigate daily life. Rejecting God because many who claim to be Christians act in a way that is not like God also limits the possibilities of studying and learning about God for oneself.

8. I am really more spiritual than religious. God is not confined to man-made churches, but he can be found in nature and in many limitless inspiring encounters.

9. God is my friend: have you ever been amazed by a little boy who knows, loves and trusts his imaginary friend? The child easily maintains a conversation and is able to describe all the characteristics of his friend in a very simple way. Many treat God the same way.

10. I couldn’t have lived without God: A testimony is a story you tell about miracles or the ways you believe God has turned chaos into peace. They credit God’s intervention for their growth and maturity.

The idea of ​​Christianity embraces a God who has three forms: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. This is like having water, ice and steam.

We all travel through life with beliefs, many of which are passed down from generation to generation. Some are learned from parents, teachers, or friends. Others develop through social interaction. Some we can explain and others we simply cannot explain. Even not believing in something is a belief. And we certainly cannot force others to believe anything unless they are willing. Faith is a personal adventure!

This Easter season I hope you will take some time to examine your beliefs and decide if they are working for you or if you need an adjustment.

Perhaps you would like to take the position of a small child who has an imaginary friend. The simplicity of this will ensure that you have someone to walk with throughout your life and know that you will never be alone again!

Happy Easter everyone!