Part 339. Faith and certainty

 In Hebrews 11:1 we read:

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Revised Standard Edition.

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see, New International Version

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living.  The Message

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. King James

So, what is it that is hoped for and how certain can we be that our hope will be realised?  Or not?  I will write only from my point of view.  My starting point is that I do not believe in an omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, metaphysical or anthropomorphic god. Nor do I believe in being consigned to heaven or hell when I die.  Therefore I do not need to conduct my life in such a way as to ensure I realise my hope, indeed the certainty, of reaching god in heaven.

I surmise that Jesus articulated a set of ideals to be acted upon and that evidence of this is to be found in the synoptic gospels. These documents are not to be taken literally but as an expression of a way of thinking and living.  They express the need for love, for helping the poor and marginalised in our society and the imperative of action to achieve change.  My hope is that by our deeds we shall see loving our neighbour in action, both in terms of assisting individuals at point of need and systemic change to achieve social justice.