Atheists: Compassion Not Condemnation

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It is easy to become self-righteous or defensive when I feel attacked by atheists. It is a natural, human reaction. However, indignant rants which bludgeon the unbeliever with the ‘truth’ treats them as objects and not an intelligent people who are also loved by God.  When I am  secure in the Love of God, I can love and respect everyone because I do not feel threatened.  Then it is possible to encourage real dialogue which actually listens to the crux of  atheists’ concerns and doubts. Such dialogue opens the door for the Holy Spirit to become the Divine Moderator of the discussion.
1 Corinthians 13:4 Love is always patient and kind; love is never jealous; love is not boastful or conceited, 5 it is never rude and never seeks its own advantage, it does not take offence or store up grievances. 6 Love does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but finds its joy in the truth…..9For we know only imperfectly… 12 Now we see only reflections in a mirror, mere riddles, but then we shall be seeing face to face. 

My words alone will not convince atheists.
 Catholics need theology and apologetics, but these disciplines will  not convert  anyone because Christianity is not primarily a moral theology or a philosophy but a relationship of love. By focusing upon the reality of  our Christian experiences as they truly are, Christ becomes a living Messiah not only to us but a visible light to others. continue>

Comments

  1. Manny12:17 am, October 13, 2014

    I don't mind most atheists. I do feel pity for them. But there are those that are mean spirited proselytizers who ridicule everything about religion. Those I condemn.

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