Worth Dying For

He tingled with anticipation as he walked into the light. There were no regrets about leaving the tired, old body behind. It had served him well throughout the years but it was time to move on.

He was eager to have his questions answered.

He had based his life on the premise it was wise to accept the evidence of his senses rather than believe the dogma of others. But in the churning chaos of life his intellect had often failed him. Logic had been insufficient to solve the mysteries of the universe.

Now, finally, he would know the truth.

He framed the questions in his mind.

If there is only one God why do men perceive him differently?

Is Jesus the only way to Heaven? Were do Muslims and Buddhists go?

Why do good men of different faiths want to kill each other?

Does a suicide bomber really get seventy-two virgins in Paradise? Is it a reward or a curse?

Do all atheists go to hell?

There were so many questions. He hoped God was patient.

He had long since discarded the simplistic views of his Protestant family. If they were right, the population in Heaven would be sparse while hell would be filled to overflowing.

Still, he had more questions. They gushed from him like water from a faucet. For each question there was an answer.

What is the purpose of mankind?

Why is there so much misery and suffering in the world?

Why injustice?

If sex is wicked why is it so enjoyable?

Is homosexuality a sin or an accident of birth?

Is abortion wrong? If so, why didn’t those who opposed it so shrilly take better care of children after they were born?

He poured out his heart, seeking to unravel the secrets of the cosmos. As his questions were answered, he felt his soul begin to relax.

So there were explanations!

It was like putting together a gigantic jigsaw puzzle. When it was finished it fit so perfectly. There were reasons piled upon reasons and they were all according to a divine plan.

Finally he understood. He got it.

It was all so beautiful.

It was definitely worth dying for.

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