TRANSCRIPT:

Hi, welcome to fiLLLed in 5 where we take 5 minutes to explore an aspect of the spiritual life. Today, we are considering some of the big questions: Who is God? Why is there suffering? What happens after I die? Are there rules for living my life?

Faith is both a deeply personal and a profoundly universal aspect of the human experience. Whether we find ourselves in moments of profound joy, deep sorrow, or simple everyday routines, questions of faith often hover in the background, inviting contemplation and reflection. Through these questions, we seek to understand the mysteries of existence, our purpose, and the divine. Exploring the big questions of faith is not just an intellectual exercise; it is a journey that shapes our lives and informs our understanding of the world.

One of the central questions of faith is the nature of God. Who or what is God? This question has been the subject of theological debate, philosophical inquiry, and personal reflection for centuries. For some, God is a personal, loving being who cares intimately for each individual. For others, God is an abstract, unknowable force that pervades the universe. And some question the very existence of God altogether. Each perspective offers a unique lens through which we can view the divine and our place in the cosmos.

Another significant question is the problem of suffering. Why do bad things happen to good people? This question challenges the faith of many and prompts a search for meaning in the face of adversity. Some find solace in the belief that suffering has a purpose, others hold that suffering is a means to grow spiritually. Many struggle with reconciling the existence of a loving God with the reality of pain and injustice in the world. This question often leads to a deeper exploration of the nature of free will, the consequences of human actions, and the mysteries of divine justice.

The question of life after death is another profound aspect of faith. What happens when we die? Beliefs about the afterlife vary widely among different cultures and religions, and even within faith groups. Some hold firm to the idea of heaven and hell, where souls are rewarded or punished based on their earthly deeds. Others believe in reincarnation, where the soul is reborn in a new body to continue its spiritual journey. Still, others embrace the concept of an eternal rest or union with the divine. This question touches on our deepest fears and hopes, shaping how we live our lives and how we view our mortality.

Faith also prompts us to ask about the nature of morality. How should we live? What is the right way to treat others? Many religious traditions provide a moral framework grounded in sacred texts and teachings. These guidelines help believers navigate complex ethical dilemmas and foster a sense of community and responsibility. However, questions about morality are not confined to the religious sphere. Secular philosophies also grapple with these issues, seeking to establish principles of justice, compassion, and human rights that transcend religious boundaries.

Exploring these big questions of faith often leads us to a place of humility and wonder. It reminds us that despite our advancements in science and technology, many mysteries elude us. Faith invites us to embrace the unknown, find meaning in the questions themselves, and cultivate a sense of awe and reverence for the universe and our place within it.

Ultimately, exploring the big questions of faith is deeply personal. Our experiences, how we were raised, our culture, and our search for ultimate truth shape our faith and spirituality. Whether we find answers or simply more questions, the process itself enriches our lives, deepens our empathy, and connects us to something greater than ourselves. It is a journey worth taking, not just for the answers we might find, but for the growth and transformation it brings along the way.

I’m Melissa Ebken, the pastor of the Illiopolis and Niantic Christian churches. I developed fiLLLed spirituality groups to provide a safe place to explore the big questions of faith, that you may have an abundance of Light Life and Love for yourself and others. Please hit the button to subscribe or check out the links below if you would like to join a group or receive an email each Friday in your inbox with inspiration for your spiritual journey.