So, I just finished reading More than a Skeleton by Paul Maier. For a fiction novel that is a "fun read"... I thought it had some very interesting dialogue.
"Resist religious extremism of every variety, dear friends! Extremism is a satanic curse that turns believers into blasphemers, devotees into devils, and the sane into insane. Jewish extremism led to the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans in the ancient world. Christian extremism led to witch hunts and pogroms in the Middle Ages. Muslim extremism leads to terrorism, war, destruction, and death in the modern world.
Never measure success by what you have totaled up in the bank, wealthy are not those who have the most, but those who need the least. The truest measure of success is what you have done to help others. That will bring a satisfaction, a supreme and exuberant joy far greater than wealth, fame, or power can ever provide!"
- More than a Skeleton by Paul Maier
It makes me think. I like that.
"Resist religious extremism of every variety, dear friends! Extremism is a satanic curse that turns believers into blasphemers, devotees into devils, and the sane into insane. Jewish extremism led to the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans in the ancient world. Christian extremism led to witch hunts and pogroms in the Middle Ages. Muslim extremism leads to terrorism, war, destruction, and death in the modern world.
Never measure success by what you have totaled up in the bank, wealthy are not those who have the most, but those who need the least. The truest measure of success is what you have done to help others. That will bring a satisfaction, a supreme and exuberant joy far greater than wealth, fame, or power can ever provide!"
- More than a Skeleton by Paul Maier
It makes me think. I like that.
6 comments:
Shantra,
I like the second half of the quote about success and wealth. However the first part raises concerns. The author makes a very general statement about religion pointing out some of the horrible outcomes without considering any of the good that has come from it, care for the poor, education, etc. The Shema seems to call us to "religious extremism" at its core - love God with everything in you - that seems about as extreme to me as you can get. Maybe he is referring to religious organizations, rather than religious beliefs, but still I am cautious because of his over generalization.
Thanks for sharing the quote and giving me something to ponder a bit today.
Thanks for your comment! The first part is directly commenting on "Religion" as an organized practice. Earlier in the book it talks about how we, as believers think that by going to church, leading bible studies, and donating through tithing outweighs all other actions. We get our "Christian To- Do List" marked off for the day. Being "Religous" as opposed to being in love with God is different. If we are not careful, we can slip into living for religion... and not for Him. Helping others out and loving others- truly loving them for who they are... not what they do is more important...
Makes you think doesn't it? :)
Thanks for your comment
This quote definitely has me thinking...don't know if I'm able to put words to it yet, but the one thought that comes to me is that it seems that when a person or group takes their faith in Christ and uses it for their passions...then their extremeness easily and quickly turns out to be anything but God's kingdom. Yet, when a person or group sincerely surrenders to Jesus and His way of love, justice, mercy,and compassion then His kingdom (rather than ours or any other) spreads into the world bringing an extreme experience of light and life, rather than darkness. These are my thoughts for now...thanks for the post!
Wow, Shan this is a great book. I am reading it and is very interesting.
More than a skeleton is entertaining, informative and refreshing.
Thanks for sharing the quote,recommend it and for the post!
Juan
have you read "a skeleton is god's closet"? the prequil. it's good too. makes you think.
Hey Shan, Thanks for your call last night...Like Rachel said, the prequel "a skeleton in god's closet" is a great read...I think I read it while we were at FFI.
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