Beautiful seems lacking, a tinge pathetic. Breathtaking comes a wee bit closer, yet still falls short. Admittedly, my vocabulary cannot do justice in describing the landscape that flew past my window. While driving through mountainous Japanese countryside, we encountered the glory of God unveiling itself through nature. Lush greenery, flooded rice paddies, and bear hidden from view bowed in respect as our car curved along the road we shared. The mist whispered as it climbed the humble giants which dwarfed houses nestled in valleys.
I felt as if I were being trusted with a secret. I was fully aware that only a small percentage of people would ever share this view with me. Completely honored to see this world before me, this new home of mine, I prayed for His presence to be made known. Such beautiful people living in such a beautiful land did not know the Beautiful One.
It is so green in Japan. I don't think I've ever seen anyplace so green.
ReplyDeleteGod speaks to everyone; in Pure Land Buddhism, the Other Power, the source of grace, is Amida Buddha. To me Amidha is Jesus in another form.
(I'm a universalist Quaker, so I tend to run religions together a bit. I'm not asking you to see this my way. It's just comforting for me to think that the idea of grace is found in Japan.)
The Omotokyo sect talks of God the Parent, (like God the Father.) Sins are "dust" that we must brush away, a very Japanese metaphor. (Perhaps this idea of sin could strike a response with some of the people you are talking to.)
ALl the best,
Rudy, NC, USA
Thanks for your thoughts, Rudy. It's always very interesting for me to learn about what others believe and make connections. :)
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