I’ve always found there to be a little misguidance in people’s fixation on glorifying Jesus. We’ll often hear of people expounding on how we should “believe in Jesus”, “pray to Jesus”, etc. Being brought up Roman Catholic, we were taught to nod our head everytime we say his name. We were taught to genuflect, as a sign of respect, when crossing from one side of the church to another, even before entering a pew. We even have “churches” dedicated to honoring Jesus.
Yet, this fixation on Jesus is misguided. I believe in Jesus as another manifestation of God (the Almighty), in whatever way that you see Him (or Her, or neither). It was never intended that we fixate on the man. It was never intended that we fixate on glorifying or holding Jesus on a pedestal. Rather, it was intended that we pay attention to the messages he brought to us. It was intended that we follow these teachings and messages without ego.
It often is the ego of church leaders and teachers that directs the intentions of the churches. Especially in this day and age, we see how fanatical some of these teachings are held and how these teachings are used more against the people, than for the people. Most religions, these days, are based on control and ego, rather than the grace, glory and benevolence of God.
But, I digress. The simple intention of this post is that I do not now, nor ever have believed that it was intended that Jesus be someone to kneel down and pray to, or hold in the esteem that has become common practice for many. Rather, the intention was to follow his lead, follow his teachings and messages. The intention is to walk alongside him, not bow at his feet.
The path to gnostic truth is from within, not without. And, Jesus (though a manifestation of God) is an example of what we can and should strive for.
Peter J Quandt