Well written brother. Even before I decided to become a Christian, I recognized that the secular, atomistic rationalism that Western society espouses was it's own mythos or religion. The most effective tool at it's disposal, in my opinion, is the successful branding of itself as "the Truth" while labeling all other belief systems ignorant superstitions.
As you say, even many supposed Christians sadly support the eroding of their own faith.
My question is - how do we keep faith in these trying times? How do we acknowledge the spiritual degeneracy of our society while remembering that Christ has overcome the world? Especially as a convert from atheism, it has been a struggle for me personally to keep the flame of hope alive inside of myself. I would greatly appreciate any advice you have on the topic.
Have you read Wounded by Love, the life and sayings of St. Porphyrios? If not, I highly recommend it and I think it answers this question much better than I can. In essence: do not focus on evil, do not focus on fighting sin or error or despair. Simply immerse yourself in Christ, in the Scriptures, the Lives of the Saints, the hymnody and worship of the Church. Surround yourself with holiness and you yourself will become holy. And as Christ Himself said, in what I consider to be some of the most important words in the entire Gospel: "In your patience possess ye your souls.... he who endures to the end will be saved." May God bless and help you!
Well written brother. Even before I decided to become a Christian, I recognized that the secular, atomistic rationalism that Western society espouses was it's own mythos or religion. The most effective tool at it's disposal, in my opinion, is the successful branding of itself as "the Truth" while labeling all other belief systems ignorant superstitions.
As you say, even many supposed Christians sadly support the eroding of their own faith.
My question is - how do we keep faith in these trying times? How do we acknowledge the spiritual degeneracy of our society while remembering that Christ has overcome the world? Especially as a convert from atheism, it has been a struggle for me personally to keep the flame of hope alive inside of myself. I would greatly appreciate any advice you have on the topic.
God bless you.
Have you read Wounded by Love, the life and sayings of St. Porphyrios? If not, I highly recommend it and I think it answers this question much better than I can. In essence: do not focus on evil, do not focus on fighting sin or error or despair. Simply immerse yourself in Christ, in the Scriptures, the Lives of the Saints, the hymnody and worship of the Church. Surround yourself with holiness and you yourself will become holy. And as Christ Himself said, in what I consider to be some of the most important words in the entire Gospel: "In your patience possess ye your souls.... he who endures to the end will be saved." May God bless and help you!