Contrary to popular opinion about the God of Christianity, God is not eagerly looking down from heaven waiting to damn some of us to an eternal fire. Instead, the Bible clearly illustrates that God’s desire is for all people to turn their hearts towards him and accept his love and forgiveness. While it may be hard to reconcile a loving God with a God that sends people to eternal damnation, it’s not impossible. Let’s answer Andy’s question, “Should he really go to hell just because his parents taught him the wrong story?” (“How can all those people be destined for eternal damnation?” Dec. 2, pg. 11)

The answer lies in every human beings inherent desire to please him/her self at the expense of others. This concept is easily proved by looking at the actions of a 2 year old toddler who, instead of playing happily with his own toy, will attempt to take the toy of the child next to him. Later on it life, selfishness continues to be portrayed in other ways. Do I look at another student’s exam, do I try and sleep with another guy’s girlfriend, do I talk bad behind someone’s back? All these actions have immediate gratification: good grades, sex, and a captivated audience. However, all these actions are labeled wrong by most of society’s and God’s standards. Additionally, they all can cause negative consequences: expulsion from school, a broken nose, and a lost friend. Who hasn’t some type of wrong action? Whether you are Ted Bundy or a Jewish boy doesn’t matter. We are all guilty of having done wrong.

Almost all people would agree that when you break laws you must face the just punishment. God’s “system” works the exact same way. Because of our inherently selfish or sin nature, we are separated from a relationship with an unselfish and completely good God. The only just punishment for our violation of a holy and infinite God’s standard (perfection) is the most painful legal sentence there is: eternity in hell. And, the only solution is forgiveness.

Thankfully, God is into rescuing people from hell, not sending them to it. God provided a “get out of hell free card” through the death of Jesus Christ on the cross. By believing and following Him, a person can have complete assurance that he no longer bears the penalty of sin but that Jesus has already borne it for him.

Now not everyone believes in this God, but I’d challenge people to try talking/praying to Him. He might just answer. Andy, you said God never spoke to you. You also said, “It was as if he (the rock star) was speaking directly to me.” Andy, that was God speaking.

David Hill SMG ’03