hope?

I eased into a parking spot at Costco and couldn't help noticing the bumper stickers on the vehicle to my right. One stated, "Pray the Rosary," and the other, "Coexist." Neither one was unusual or surprising. Both are common; I've seen them on cars in every state. This time it got me thinking. 

Is that someone's hope for mankind? If only we could all coexist peacefully and pray the rosary, all would be well? My kids have studied ancient history this year and together we've learned of wars and battles that have taken place worldwide, and the bloodshed caused, whether by dictatorship or whatever reason. The pattern repeats itself regardless of the time or people groups involved. It doesn't take long to realize humans can't coexist for very long without getting mad about something and dealing with it by brutal force. And don't we all have to teach our own children to not use their hands, feet, and mouths to lash out when they become angry at a sibling? It comes so naturally and often instantaneously with negative emotions. Like a tsunami, the mind can quickly surge with overwhelming urges to destroy to diminish another. 

We also visited a firearms museum and saw the amazing collection of firearms that goes back to medieval times. There were so many intricately designed weapons boasting beautiful craftsmanship by its maker. Many were given as gifts and represented or brought about desirable and undesirable results for certain people or nations. Wilderness survival was highlighted as well. Like the simple matching cards game children play, man and some sort of weapon mechanism make an emblematic pair.  

I felt bad for whoever was touting the coexistence concept and the rosary as ideas or solutions for living well and free. While it's great to meditate on truths, seeking to draw closer to Jesus, the rosary is not Scriptural at all. Jesus never taught his disciples to seek access or permission from his mother. She calls him her Savior (Luke 2:47) even before she gave birth. He is the way, the truth, and the life; not Mary, as wonderful and willing, pure vessel as she was. (John 14:6). That's easy to read and figure out her blessed role and status. 

As far as coexisting, I know we are enormously blessed to live peaceably around so much ethnic and religious diversity here in Virginia. I can't imagine what it would be like otherwise.   

"For I am persuaded..." (See Romans 8 and Hebrews 1) Our ultimate hope must be in something greater than ourselves and our feeble efforts at spirituality in whatever cloak of religion or goodness. The Lord Jesus Christ is the solution, and every eye will see him (Revelation 1:7) one day soon.