Our class tonight was supposed to be focused on the Three Poisons, Attachment, Aversion, and Delusion, then someone mentioned “God” and off we went. This diversion evolved into an important and lively discussion. Like many Buddhists, especially in the mid-west, many of my guys come from solid Christian denominational backgrounds, as such, questions often arise, perhaps stemming from real spiritual conflict, surrounding their interest in Buddhist practice against the back drop and expectations of their Christian heritage. From my experience, it is a topic that is rarely discussed among American sanghas. Perhaps it should be.

My own particular view is this, and forgive me if you find it too simplified. Beyond the vast metaphysical and philosophical differences, Jesus spoke of the importance of certain fundamental Christ like behaviors, which He very firmly believed were necessary for the human world to function properly. The world of “humanness” Christ envisioned, and strove diligently to create, was a world of charity, love and compassion. It was a world of neighborly love and affection for the less fortunate, and the suffering numbers among us.

Buddhists, and many other communities of practicing humans, share these very same virtues of Christ like behavior. Living a non harmful life of simplicity and compassion, freeing oneself and others from suffering, harmony with the natural world and a concern for its well being. Is this not living gracefully in the world? How could a loving and enlightened God possibly condemn you?