Life after Life

Generally speaking, a religion is a closed system of facts, beliefs, stories, myths, and practices shared by a group of people. Most, perhaps all, religions arise fundamentally as a reaction to human mortality and the personal anxiety associated therewith. The ultimate purpose of a religion is to provide comfort by suggesting answers to the vexing questions regarding the creation of life, the purpose of life, and life after death.

Most religions have a spiritual component and pay homage to a deity or deities. It is readily apparent that human knowledge is woefully incomplete and that we are not in control of events, thus the need for a supreme being to blame and/or beseech regarding natural events and the outcomes of human endeavors.

Religions have been used in the service of controlling human behavior through reward and punishment for particular actions. Many of these incentives and disincentives are promised in the afterlife. Islamic suicide bombers who attack infidels are rewarded posthumously with milk and honey–and the company of virgins. Christian sinners are burned in Hell. Good Buddhists move up to the next level on the freeway to Nirvana.

According to John 3:16, Christianity promises eternal life as a reward for believing in Jesus Christ. It seems to me that, from a human perspective, eternal life would be incredibly boring. How would one ever accomplish anything knowing that he literally has forever to get things done? What's time to a hog ...or an angel?

I hope for something different, something more. If you concur, try this: Imagine a life after death scenario that you would find satisfying. Even an atheist can participate in this exercise! No faith required. No deity needed. If you are religious, forget the teachings of your belief system. Just answer the question: What do I want death to be like?

I'll give you my answer in a day or two. Meanwhile think about it and if you wish, post your ideal afterlife scenario in the comments below.

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