Thursday, September 15, 2011

Still Bugging Me

(see previous blog on Richard Branson)
Richard kept saying "if someone could convince me to believe in God, then I would."
As much as I want to believe that I can't.
From Norm to Richard:
Of all the near death experiences you've had, you of all people have come close to meeting your Maker. I know, I know you believe in Evolution. You think it is bizarre that anyone does not believe in Evolution. Richard, the biggest reason to believe in Evolution is to not believe in Creation. And the biggest reason to deny a Creator is so one does not have to submit to this Creator and can live this life doing whatever they want with no consideration of God and men. The First Cause and First Stuff arguments pretty much ruin Evolution for me. ---Enough on Evolution for now.
Again, you said that if someone could convince you then you would believe. You did make a statement about different religions in the world being an issue for you, and also religious people not being very kind and giving was an issue. ---Richard you can find a bunch of loonies any place in the world and mixed up with any religion. Please don't group everyone together. Any religion, including Christians have and can do things to turn people off. I hate this. I'm sorry for this. But you are dealing with imperfect people. Hey, I'm sure you are a good person and have probably made a few mistakes.
Let me cut to the chase, "Richard, to you who is Jesus?"
You might say a good person...some religions recognize him as a prophet or great teacher. Here are some things we know about Jesus, he walked the earth. He had a great reputation. He was known for helping the needy, and doing the things that I think you would agree were right. He would definitely be someone others could follow by example and the world would be a better place. Right? Yeah, I think you would agree with that. ---Did you know that Jesus claimed to be the Son of God and claimed to be the only way to get right with God? Here's the line in the sand. Jesus was either who he said he was...God...or he was a big, fat liar. Thus, a decision has to be made by us. Will I accept Jesus for who he said he was or not? We need to get right with God, because we've all sinned...nobody's perfect. And Jesus offers that opportunity. He was crucified naked in public. Read about it. He was resurrected three days later, and hung around for forty days and over 500 people at various times and places witnessed this.
Hey, I'm not looking to convince you or anyone in one sitting. Read about Jesus. Find a quiet place and ask the God of heaven to reveal Himself to you. Listen.
God will reveal himself to those who sincerely seek Him. Now, if you're just messing around then forget about it.
Last thing, Richard, you've been on some amazing adventures. Right now, you are looking to go into outer space. That's pretty awesome. How cool would it be to have a real relationship with the God who made all the stuff you have experienced more than most men. Be honest, how many times have you been up in the air or on the water and said "Wow, or Oh God!"? That kind of creation doesn't just happen. You see the design. It's not a series of luck. And I think it no mistake that you are still alive. God has given you many second chances. You have a voice. Come to Christ. Forget about those people with purple hair and a ton of make up and that hold up signs of hate...that is not what being a Christian is all about. It is about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ who will then show you what to do next. You are God's masterpiece, Richard. Read Ephesians 2:8-10 Peace and love to you.