Why There Is Not Nothing

The atheist posterboard display in the capitol building in Washington (our Washington, not D.C.) got me to thinking. Many folks were incensed about having such a statement slamming religion at the "most wonderful time of the year" for Christians. Mostly, I feel sad for atheists. Sure, I wish they would not feel the need to express their brand of faith, or lack thereof, in this season, but I understand the attention value. I wish they would promote their own position without slamming religion, all religion, as "but myth and superstition that hardens hearts and enslaves minds."

O.K., there's no need to be rude. They say they offered the display because they wanted a "place at the table." Perhaps they need better table manners.

But I feel sad for atheists because they will always have a "God-shaped hole" (thank you, Thomas Troeger) in their lives. And that leaves it to us to make them envious of our faith. I do not necessarily want to rub the secular Christmas trappings and wrappings in their noses. They can call it "saturnalia" and get presents and run up credit card debt, too. But a personal God who knows our trials and joys is an inexpressible gift. If we can come together in this season engendering some hope and peace, love and joy in our hearts, I would hope atheists do not have a problem with that.

A classic question in the face of atheism comes from some vein of German theologians; it asks, ‘why is there not nothing?' I believe our answer tells our concept of the nature of God and Christ. There is more to life than simply what we can see and explain. In this season, I think Christians get to have more up-lifting answers than questions. And, it can be hoped, the faith we share overshadows our differences.

I wish you the blessings of family and faith community in this Advent and Christmastide.