Faith from the heart . . .

Is faith a matter of the head or the heart? Faith, according to one definition found in the dictionary, is a belief, trust, and loyalty to God. Those with faith are steadfast in their conviction that, ultimately, love shall prevail over fear. Those who are faithful have an underlying sense that all is well—that God’s plan for mankind is perfect and is unfolding just as it should. But how can this be? Global insanity appears to be spreading. War, genocide, murder, rape, and other atrocities abound. Many proclaim that our planet’s health is ailing, and our nations’ economies are crumbling. The ugly facts are dutifully reported in each day’s newscasts. And none of this addresses the angst we often experience while dealing with such things as careers, finances, and relationships. How can all of this possibly be part of God’s plan? Why does a loving God not intervene? How can we maintain our faith during such turbulent times?

Be assured that God does not want any of His children to suffer. He wishes us to live joyously! But we have the gift of free will. Accordingly, some people choose to turn their back to God’s light. They choose to live in self-created darkness. Dwelling in shadows, they adopt fear as an ally. Love still exists in their hearts, but its presence is barely perceptible. Fear causes people to act in fits of rage, jealousy, and retribution. You might ask, “John, if free will allows people to behave so badly, why is it a gift?” It’s a gift because spiritual growth—individually and collectively—is often greatly accelerated during times of human distress and agony. God does not force us to love one another or to love Him. But when we choose to love others and to love God, our divine Spirit is affirmed. Our faith is justified.

All human behavior can be categorized as either an expression of love or a crying out for love. When people intentionally harm others, they are crying out for love. Human tragedies grab our attention. They shock us, and we are again reminded to love each other. Most importantly, they offer opportunities to forgive. Forgiveness does not mean we condone the behavior. But when we forgive, we extend love. A Course in Miracles teaches that healing occurs the moment we forget to judge someone. According to the Course, forgiveness paves the pathway to God’s Kingdom. Through forgiveness, we gently awaken to our immortal reality.

Especially during this season, let us look to those who taught forgiveness. The Buddha said, “To understand everything is to forgive everything.” Jesus said, “Forgiveness sets the world free.” Jesus forgave the rich, the poor, the immoral, and the criminal. He forgave his disciples who betrayed him. He even forgave those who crucified him. Yet we shouldn’t focus on the crucifixion. Instead, let us seek the truth and reality revealed through the resurrection. The risen Christ is a message of hope. For many, the living Christ is the very foundation of faith.

Take a moment to reflect on the meaning of faith. Know that your trust in God is well founded, for His presence is constant and His love is unconditional. Once this is accepted, faith flows from the heart.

May your holidays be blessed with love and peace!

John