Remaining in Community

My theology has not moved me away from the Christian congregation that I am part of. I realized how important this is as I continually think about how different my understanding of reality is from mainstream Christianity.  I see parts of Christianity moving towards an understanding of the world similar to modern American Buddhism. (While other segments are regressing.) Yesterday the pastor said something like everyone is deserving is the heart of Christianity in her sermon. In the Confirmation class she said how difficult it is to talk about hell and what it means. The negative aspects of Christianity theology are difficult. With the positive, it is easy to call it a "mystery" which also doesn't answer the issue straight on. While I still have an interest in Christian theology, I am inspired and find guidance for my life from Buddhist authors.

Community is important in Buddhism. "...mindfulness can offer more than [a tool for self-betterment], 'giving people the chance to 'look outside themselves,' deepening their sense of place within nature and interconnectedness with their community.'" While I have had limited and brief experiences with sanghas, my main community continues to be the church I have attended for years. I am not anti-christianity as much of it is about community and faith, not theology. In a journal entry, I have the Dali Lama roughly quoted as "Stick with the religion we were born. Share but implement within your own tradition - egotism when you switch is worse. Just because you didn't find it, doesn't mean it isn't there. Stay with one tradition if you are able." 

Leading an adult Bible study was interesting a while ago as I learned about Buddhism while studying for the study each week. I just served as a mentor for a confirmand who appreciated what I shared so my faith was compatible even if my underlying understanding of reality different. I like the organization of Buddhist Path with reflections, meditations, and spiritual exercises. Even with underlying differences, Buddhists share many practices and some things are just a matter of emphasis. I found it interesting in Confirmation class how Methodism has similar organization with three simple rules, types of grace and the quadrilateral.