Early in 1971, at a time when our country had endured much pain, John Lennon wrote the words to the best-selling single of his solo career, “Imagine.” The lyrics he penned encouraged listeners to imagine a world without many things, including religion. I can’t imagine.
I know I need to do a lot better in many aspects of my life, and my faith helps me to realize this and pray for improvement — and I need to improve. Praying to God helps me recognize this. I realize this isn’t the solution for everyone, and that’s why freedom of religion is an integral part of the First Amendment to our Constitution. None of us can be certain what each of the founding fathers had in mind when creating this language, but I am glad they did.
Some scoff at the amount of time and money that people spend worshiping any god or partaking in any religion. They are correct in that it is a lot of time and money. But if that time and money make me feel like a better person by trying to do things to improve relations with my friends, in my family and for my community, then isn’t it worth it? And if it turns out that there is no God, then what am I really out? But, if I am right — and God and heaven and hell do all exist — then I truly sympathize for those who opt to not believe. In the end, it’s a choice we all have to make. And, as with all decisions, there will be consequences.
Meanwhile, I have known people who claimed to not believe in God or join in any religion change their tune when death knocked at their door. Better late than never.
John Lennon was correct that religion is a problem when it is the basis for unnecessary war, death, famine or suffering. But if you believe in judgment day, as I do, then you have faith that our maker’s ultimate decisions will be swift and just for those responsible.
Imagine that.
Have a wonderful Wednesday, and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
President and Publisher
Big Green Umbrella Media
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305 | 
