In the quiet corners of every heart’s room, Where shadows may linger, where doubts may loom,
Christ matters, His love an eternal stream, A truth beyond time, like a sacred dream.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” He spoke, A promise from the Scriptures, a celestial stroke. Not just an anxiety teacher, as some may claim, But the Lord of salvation, in Jesus’ name.
“In the beginning was the Word,” divine, A truth transcendent, like aged wine. Yet some dismiss, with a casual nod, The wisdom found in the Word of God.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart,” it’s told, In conservative teachings, a treasure to hold. For Christ matters in every stride, A Savior’s love, forever our guide.
“Love your neighbor as yourself,” the decree, A concept rooted in Christianity’s tree. Beyond outdated, beyond the fray, In Christ’s love, we find our way.
“In Him, all things hold together,” the verse, An anchor for souls, a blessing, not a curse. Not mere philosophy from days of old, But eternal truths, forever told.
So, let Christ matter in every land, A cornerstone, steadfast, and grand. Not confined to anxious thoughts alone, But a Savior’s love, eternally known.
Introducing our exclusive t-shirt that boldly declares, “Christian actions speak louder than virtue signaling.” In a world filled with noise and empty gestures, this shirt stands as a powerful reminder that as Christians, our commitment to virtue is rooted in God’s teachings rather than political posturing.
Product Description: Embrace the essence of true virtue with our thought-provoking t-shirt. The phrase “Christian actions speak louder than virtue signaling” encapsulates the core principle that as followers of Christ, our virtues are not for public display but are deeply embedded in our actions, guided by God’s standards rather than political trends.
Inspiration from the Scriptures: This shirt is not just a piece of clothing; it’s a testament to the biblical teachings on virtue. Immerse yourself in the wisdom of the Scriptures with eight handpicked verses that illuminate the path of true virtue:
Colossians 3:12-17 – Put on Virtues as God’s Chosen Ones
2 Peter 1:5-7 – Add Virtue to Your Faith
Matthew 5:16 – Let Your Light Shine Before Others
Titus 2:7-8 – Show Yourself in All Respects to be a Model of Good Works
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 – The Characteristics of Love
Biblical Examples of Virtue: Illustrating the concept further, the shirt features three inspiring biblical examples of virtue:
Ruth: A woman of unwavering loyalty and kindness, Ruth’s virtuous actions led her to become a beacon of hope and an integral part of God’s redemptive plan.
Joseph: Despite facing adversity, Joseph displayed remarkable virtue by remaining faithful to God, forgiving those who wronged him, and ultimately playing a crucial role in God’s divine plan.
Esther: Esther’s courage and virtue positioned her to save her people, reminding us that true virtue empowers us to make a positive impact on the world around us.
Wear this shirt with pride, knowing that your commitment to virtue is grounded in the timeless wisdom of the Scriptures. Let your actions speak volumes and inspire others to embrace true virtue – a virtue defined by God’s standards, not the fleeting winds of political correctness.
In the bustling city of Harmonyville, where people from various backgrounds coexisted, there lived a man named Richard Thompson. Richard, an influential figure in the community, was known for his business acumen and charisma. However, a dark cloud loomed over his commendable achievements – his belief that race was more significant than character.
Raised in an environment that perpetuated harmful stereotypes, Richard clung to outdated ideologies that judged people based on the color of their skin rather than the content of their character. His views stood in stark contrast to the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr., who dreamt of a society where individuals were evaluated by the substance within them.
One day, as Harmonyville buzzed with activity, Richard attended a community event where he encountered David Patterson, a talented African-American artist. David’s vibrant personality and passion for art made him a local favorite, but Richard, clouded by his prejudiced mindset, couldn’t see beyond the color of his skin.
As fate would have it, the city was preparing for the annual Harmonyville Unity Festival, an event that aimed to celebrate differences and challenge preconceived notions. The organizing committee, aware of Richard’s narrow-minded views, assigned him the task of overseeing the festival’s art exhibition, strategically hoping to broaden his perspective.
But this story is not just about Richard’s journey; it is also a reflection of the contemporary challenges faced by society. News stories, bulletins, and articles became integral to the narrative, serving as object lessons to the reader about the rise of character degradation irrespective of racial or ethnic background.
In the weeks leading up to the festival, headlines flashed across screens, illustrating instances where the lack of character seemed to be on the rise. Scandals involving prominent figures, regardless of their racial or ethnic backgrounds, dominated the news cycle. The media became a mirror reflecting the erosion of moral values in society.
As Richard immersed himself in the festival preparations, he found himself confronted with these real-world examples of character degradation. News stories highlighted cases where individuals, irrespective of their race, succumbed to the temptations of greed, dishonesty, and unethical behavior. The world seemed to be grappling with a crisis of character, overshadowing the harmony that the Unity Festival aimed to celebrate.
Amid the festival’s vibrant atmosphere, Richard’s interactions with artists from diverse backgrounds were interspersed with snippets of news articles portraying the struggles society faced in preserving moral integrity. The juxtaposition of the artistic creations and the contemporary challenges underscored the urgency of addressing the degradation of character that transcended racial boundaries.
On the day of the Harmonyville Unity Festival, the city square transformed into a vivid tapestry of colors and sounds, mirroring the variety within the community. Richard, having been exposed to the stark reality of character erosion through contemporary news stories, approached the art exhibition with a newfound perspective.
The artworks spoke volumes about the human experience, challenging the prevalent narrative of character degradation. Yet, the festival wasn’t just a celebration; it became a platform for introspection. News articles, strategically displayed alongside the art, served as reminders that the battle against character degradation was ongoing and transcended racial or ethnic lines.
As Richard navigated through the festival, he couldn’t help but reflect on the news stories that underscored the urgency of addressing the crisis of character in contemporary society. The vibrant artworks stood as a testament to the beauty that could emerge when individuals embraced their differences, yet the headlines reminded everyone that the journey toward true harmony required confronting the challenges posed by eroding values.
Motivated by his experiences and the lessons from contemporary news stories, Richard continued to champion the importance of character development in Harmonyville. He initiated programs that not only celebrated individuality but also addressed the pressing need for character development in the face of societal challenges. The once-divided city became a beacon of resilience, demonstrating that character could triumph over the prevailing winds of moral decay.
To support the concepts of unity, merit, integrity, and the development of good character being above reproach, Richard turned to timeless wisdom found in the Bible. Here are seven passages that resonated with him and became guiding principles for Harmonyville:
Ephesians 4:3 (NIV): “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Proverbs 11:3 (NIV): “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”
Philippians 2:3 (NIV): “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.”
Proverbs 22:1 (NIV): “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”
Colossians 3:23 (NIV): “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV): “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.”
Galatians 6:4 (NIV): “Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else.”
These passages became foundational for Richard and the community of Harmonyville, guiding them toward a society where character and unity triumphed over divisive ideologies. The festival, now infused with these principles, continued to inspire positive change and foster a harmonious environment where the content of one’s character was truly valued above all else.
The well-known carol by Charles Wesley echoes the scene from Luke 2, where angels herald the birth of Jesus with the proclamation of peace on earth. However, amidst ongoing conflict and war, the idea of Jesus’ birth ushering in peace raises questions. Even Jesus’ own statement about bringing division instead of peace in Luke 12:51 adds complexity.
The Expectation of Peace with the Messiah
Anticipation of the Messiah bringing peace stemmed from prophetic promises. The prophets envisioned a time of global harmony, where nations would cease warring and swords would transform into tools for productivity (Isaiah 2:4). This anticipation was deeply rooted in biblical hope.
Jesus’ Contradictory Words
Understanding the biblical promise of peace is crucial in comprehending Jesus’ paradoxical statement about bringing a sword instead of peace (Matthew 10:34-39). He prepared his followers for persecution, not advocating violence but forewarning of the hardships they’d face for their allegiance.
A Nuanced Peace
The proclamation of peace among those favored by God (Luke 2:14) implies a selective peace, existing despite the persistence of evil and violence in the world. Jesus’ reign aims to reconcile diverse peoples, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers (Ephesians 2:14-16).
Living Out Jesus’ Peace
A follower of Jesus embodies peace by forgiving, loving others, blessing persecutors, and practicing virtues outlined in various scriptures. Their lives should reflect the transformation described by Isaiah, where weapons of destruction become tools for productivity.
Making Peace Amidst Disbelief
Until Jesus’ return, disbelief persists, perpetuating violence. However, believers strive to make peace, acknowledging Jesus’ reign and advocating for peace through meekness, gentleness, and sacrificial love.
Peace: A Promise for Believers
Despite skepticism, Jesus assures blessings for the meek, peacemakers, and the persecuted. Peace on earth, both present and eternal, belongs to those who believe, walk in the Spirit, and actively pursue peace.
Remember, you are loved, both by me and by a caring God.
In recent times, the socio-political landscape has been marked by fervent movements and fervid debates, each striving to shape the narrative of our nation. Amidst these clamors, one resounding call emerges—a call to “Magnify Almighty God Again.” This echoes a sentiment of rekindling the divine virtues that once guided our nation’s principles.
The acronym “MAGA,” often associated with a political movement, holds a different connotation here. Rather than emphasizing a partisan stance, it champions the reclamation of ethical and moral values that have been eroding in our society. It underscores the urgency to return to the higher ideals and standards that foster unity, compassion, and respect for one another.
A Glimpse into the Current State
Over the past decades, statistics from various institutions, including Focus on the Family, highlight concerning trends in societal dynamics. Crime rates, rioting incidents, civil unrest, and assaults have seen fluctuations, with certain periods witnessing an unsettling rise. However, the emphasis isn’t solely on these statistics but on recognizing the underlying factors contributing to such turmoil.
Prominent figures, some identifying strongly with their Christian beliefs, have voiced concerns about the deteriorating moral fabric of our society. Their advocacy for upholding ethical standards aligns with the fundamental teachings of scripture that emphasize compassion, justice, and love for one another.
Scriptural Perspectives on Restoration
Scripture itself echoes the call to magnify the Almighty. The Bible speaks of love, kindness, and righteousness as pillars that support a flourishing society. Psalms 34:3 reminds us to “Magnify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.” This resonates with the need to come together, regardless of differences, to uplift values that unite rather than divide.
The essence of “Magnify Almighty God Again” lies not in divisiveness but in unity, not in exclusion but in inclusivity. It champions a moral resurgence that transcends political boundaries, focusing on the shared values that elevate humanity.
The Path Forward
Addressing societal challenges necessitates a multifaceted approach. While statistics can illuminate trends, the solution lies in nurturing hearts and minds towards compassion, empathy, and ethical conduct. It’s not merely about highlighting the problems but actively participating in solutions.
To propagate this message of restoration and moral rejuvenation, a symbolic gesture emerges—a T-shirt that boldly proclaims “God is the Answer.” This isn’t just a garment; it’s a statement—an affirmation of faith and a call to action. Proceeds from this T-shirt campaign aim to support initiatives promoting community engagement, compassion, and ethical education.
Conclusion
Amid polarizing narratives, “Magnify Almighty God Again” emerges as a beacon of hope—a call to transcend differences and embrace the timeless virtues that foster societal harmony. It’s a reminder that the strength of a nation lies not only in its policies and structures but in the morality and ethical standards upheld by its people.
The choice to magnify God again isn’t just a slogan; it’s a commitment—a commitment to steer our nation toward unity, compassion, and ethical resurgence. As we navigate the complexities of our time, let us heed this call, for in magnifying the Almighty, we find the compass guiding us toward a better tomorrow.
America, the land of opportunity, has held a unique position on the world stage for the past 60-70 years. Its influence, both domestically and internationally, has been profound across religious, political, social, and entertainment spheres.
Numerous political figures have espoused the exceptional nature of America. From presidents like Ronald Reagan to Barack Obama, the sentiment of American exceptionalism, rooted in the nation’s democratic principles and freedoms, has been a recurring theme. These leaders emphasized the importance of liberty, individual rights, and the enduring strength of the Constitution.
In the social realm, figures like Martin Luther King Jr. championed civil rights, underscoring America’s potential for progress and equality. Innovators like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates symbolized the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in the United States, embodying the country’s commitment to innovation and progress.
In the world of entertainment, cultural icons such as Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and later, influential figures like Oprah Winfrey, Steven Spielberg, and Beyoncé, showcased the diversity and dynamism of American talent, shaping global pop culture and redefining entertainment standards.
One of the pillars of American exceptionalism lies in its commitment to religious freedom. The First Amendment guarantees the freedom of religion, allowing individuals to practice their faith without fear of persecution. This right has been central to America’s identity, attracting diverse religious communities seeking sanctuary and freedom.
While the phrase “MAGA” has been associated with various interpretations, historically referring to “Make America Great Again,” it’s important to note that expressions of religious beliefs may differ across individuals. Some may interpret “MAGA” as an acronym for “Magnify Almighty God Again,” signifying a call to emphasize spiritual values in the country’s discourse.
While the phrase “MAGA” has been associated with various interpretations, historically referring to “Make America Great Again,” it’s important to note that expressions of religious beliefs may differ across individuals. Some may interpret “MAGA” as an acronym for “Magnify Almighty God Again,” signifying a call to emphasize spiritual values in the country’s discourse.
The First Amendment embodies America’s unique commitment to the freedom of religion. It safeguards the right of individuals to worship according to their beliefs, fostering a diverse tapestry of faiths that contribute to the nation’s rich cultural fabric.
In celebrating America’s exceptionalism, it’s crucial to acknowledge the contributions of diverse communities and perspectives. Embracing this diversity strengthens the country’s resilience and fosters an environment where freedom and inclusivity thrive.
However, it’s also vital to recognize that the idea of American exceptionalism has faced scrutiny and debate, with differing opinions on the extent and nature of this exceptionalism. Some argue that emphasizing exceptionalism may overshadow areas needing improvement or ignore historical complexities.
America’s influence over the past 60-70 years has undeniably been significant across various realms. Its commitment to freedoms enshrined in the Constitution, including religious freedom, remains a cornerstone of its identity.
While expressions of patriotism and religious sentiment are personal, it’s essential to approach these discussions with respect for differing perspectives and to engage in dialogue that promotes unity and understanding among diverse communities.
As we reflect on America’s legacy, let’s cherish the values that unite us and continue striving to build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.
This article celebrates the historical and cultural richness of America without endorsing specific merchandise. Emphasizing diverse viewpoints is crucial in appreciating the breadth of American identity and the values it represents.
In a quaint town nestled among rolling hills, there lived a trio of friends: Sarah, David, and Emily. They were inseparable, often seen wandering through the town’s cobbled streets, sharing laughter and adventures.
One breezy afternoon, while lounging in the park, their chatter turned to deeper matters—the meaning of life and the existence of something greater. Sarah, the thoughtful one, gazed at the sky and whispered, “The Father reigns in heaven’s height.”
David, the jovial jokester, grinned and exclaimed, “And the Son, our Savior, brings us light! That’s what my grandma always says!”
Emily, the quiet observer, nodded knowingly. “The Spirit moves, unseen, yet near, guiding souls with love sincere.”
Their conversation led them on a quest for understanding, seeking wisdom in the words of the Scriptures. As they journeyed, each encounter seemed to mirror the verses they discussed.
At the town square, Sarah paused to help a struggling elderly woman. Quoting Matthew 25:40, she said, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” The woman’s face lit up with gratitude.
Meanwhile, David found himself in a local eatery, sharing a meal with a lonely man. With a smile, he recited John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” The man’s gloomy countenance transformed into hope.
Emily stumbled upon a group of children playing by the riverbank. She knelt and shared, “Psalm 139:7 says, ‘Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?’ God is always near.” The children’s innocent giggles filled the air.
Their encounters deepened their understanding of the divine presence in everyday life. As they continued their journey, they stumbled upon a charity event where they witnessed generosity and compassion. Quoting 1 John 4:9, they realized, “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.”
Their experiences bonded them even more, reaffirming their faith and friendship. With hearts brimming with gratitude, they returned to the park, where they first delved into their spiritual quest. Looking at each other, they recited Jeremiah 29:13 in unison, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
Their journey had taught them that the message on their t-shirts wasn’t just words—it was a revelation. With smiles and a newfound sense of purpose, they vowed to continue spreading the love and light they had discovered, one verse and one act of kindness at a time.
And as they laughed and teased each other under the setting sun, they knew that the divine presence they sought was always with them—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—guiding their souls with love sincerely.
In a world where societal norms often diverge from biblical principles, the phrase “God Made Me No Affirming Care Required” serves as a poignant acknowledgment of God’s intentional craftsmanship on humanity. It underscores the inherent completeness of God’s creation and the profound significance of His design.
**Biblical Foundation: Male and Female**
The Bible unequivocally emphasizes God’s creation of male and female as the bedrock for societal structure, procreation, and the union of families. Genesis 1:27 sets this foundational truth: “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” This distinction forms the basis for the divine institution of marriage.
**Heterosexual Marriage: A Divine Union**
God’s design for marriage is explicitly articulated in numerous passages throughout the Bible. Ephesians 5:31 echoes Genesis, affirming, “For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” This union reflects the profound relationship between Christ and the Church, emphasizing the spiritual depth of heterosexual marriage.
**Raising Children for Christian Service**
Within the sanctity of heterosexual marriage, God intends for the upbringing of children in accordance with Christian principles. Proverbs 22:6 underscores this responsibility: “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.” The family unit, guided by biblical teachings, plays a pivotal role in nurturing children for a life of Christian service.
**Consequences of Departing from God’s Model**
Despite societal shifts, deviating from God’s intended model for marriage and family may entail consequences. Romans 1:24-27 cautions against forsaking natural relations and pursuing unnatural ones, highlighting the potential repercussions of straying from God’s design.
In today’s rapidly evolving society, where perspectives on marriage vary widely, adhering to God’s blueprint might not always align with prevailing cultural norms. Nevertheless, embracing God’s intentional design fosters a deeper understanding of His purpose for humanity and ensures a stable foundation for individuals, families, and society as a whole.
In conclusion, the phrase “God Made Me No Affirming Care Required” encapsulates the profound acknowledgment of God’s intentional creation and the significance of upholding His design for marriage and family.
This post aims to shed light on the biblical perspective regarding marriage and family, emphasizing the value of adhering to God’s blueprint amidst societal changes. Embracing God’s design remains a personal choice that carries significant implications for individuals and society.
John Rziha’s The Christian Moral Life offers a Christian overview of the good life for which God created us, along with the virtue-forming habits through which we may attain it.
The theology is faithfully within the Catholic tradition, and the use of terms and concepts is decidedly Thomistic. The book is divided into two parts. In Part 1, Rziha outlines a framework for thinking about the Christian moral life. Using the analogy of a journey to God, he points out the travelers must know three things: (1) their beginning point; (2) where they are going; and (3) how to get there. Our beginning point is our human nature and the subsequent inclinations we all experience.
Part 2 covers the three theological virtues – faith, hope, charity – and four cardinal virtues – produce, justice, temperance, fortitude. Each chapter on an individual virtue includes a discussion of sub-virtues, which are aspects of the broader cardinal or theological virtues under consideration. And here, there are some especially thoughtful connections. Yes, fortitude obviously requires patience and perseverance; but it also requires meekness.
As we practice justice, we will of course be aided by gratitude and honesty, but also be aided by industry and stewardship. By bringing out the connection points among all the virtues, Rziha helps reinforce a central theme of the book: that the virtues are all intended to serve the ultimate purpose of cultivating our love of God so that we may enjoy eternal fellowship with Him.
Throughout the book, Rziha offers a framework for moral theology that is unswervingly teleological (as opposed to deontological). While most discussions of justice focus on respect for others’ rights, within Rziha’s teleological framework, “the most important aspect of justice is that it perfects the ability of humans to love others” (224). In his discussion of Natural Law theory, the “eternal law” is simply God’s “plan directing all things to their proper end” (102). I myself find it a great merit of Rziha’s book that he frames his discussions in these terms. It is a sad fact that moral theology over the past few centuries has in may quarters not wanted to start with the kinds of questions Aristotle and Aquinas saw as central: what the good life consists in for humans, and how we may achieve it. Yet, it is the book’s staunch commitment to this tradition of Aquinas – including his terms and concepts – that potentially leads to certain types of difficulties. We are quite far removed today from Aquinas’ metaphysical commitments. Medieval scholars spend years studying how Aquinas and others would have understood such claims as the objects “tend toward” their natural ends. To those who are not Medieval scholars, can we retain Aquinas’ terms and categories, and still understand most of what he intended to convey? I am not sure.
This problem arises mainly in Rziha’s discussion of human action and decision-making, which would largely be covered in modern curriculum by courses in philosophy of action and the philosophy of mind. For those with backgrounds in these areas, it may prove frunstrating to read antiquated statements such as that “The will is naturally inclined to love the true good” (20). Or, it may seem too artificial to claim that prudence “perfects the intellect,” with justice “perfecting the will,” and temperance and fortitude “perfecting the emotions.” So, there may be a trade-off between a faithful recapitulation of Aquinas and a serious, modern proposal of the processes of human decision-making and intentional action. Nevertheless, Rhiza’s discussions do serve as a spiritual formative way of looking at the human condition and God’s resources for leading us to the good life of communion with Him.
COMING IN JUNE 2020
In sum, Rziha offers an extremely detailed, and laudably systematic, look at the connection points within moral theology: between one virtue and another, between virtue and the sins that undermine it, between virtue and the actions that cultivate it, between virtue and the grace that perfects it. These are faithful summations of the rich Thomistic tradition. Each topic presents the reader with challenges if seeking a deeper life with God. And if readers are indeed seeking to be spiritually formed, they will embrace these challenges, given the continuously attractive way Rziha presents the end of our journey: perfect happiness found in God. The book will work well as an introductory text for undergraduate students. More widely, for those interested in understanding the Catholic, Thomist tradition in moral theology, as well as for those already in that tradition who would like a framework for understanding how familiar themes of human telos, grace, law, and virtue all fit together, this book would be an excellent choice.
An academic textbook promising “directions for the journey to happiness” must be an odd outrider in a genre that typically explains bland technical subjects with dispassionate, often tedious prose. Such is the peculiar case with this introduction to Catholic moral theology from John Rziha, professor of theology at Benedictine College (Atchison, Kansas).
While it exhibits all the formal organization, diligent comprehensiveness, and (at times) even plodding language of a common school textbook, the attainment of both natural and eternal happiness really is the unerring focus of this book. Rziha defines moral theology as “the study of how humans attain eternal happiness through loving union with God by performing their proper actions with the aid of God’s grace” (2). So, throughout his nineteen carefully argued chapters, Rziha never loses sight of this ultimate goal of happiness or the essential human need for loving relationships with God and other people.
AUDIOBOOK COMING IN JUNE 2020
The text is organized into two parts with the second building upon the first.”Moral Theology in General” covers the subjects essential to the discipline: human nature, sanctifying grace, the four types of laws, the practice of virtue, the nature of sin, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and other salient points.
“The Individual Virtues and Laws” takes a deeper look into the three theological and four cardinal virtues, including specific sub-virtues, related gifts of the Holy Spirit, relevant commandments, and sins that oppose each virtue.
Rziha always writes in accessible language to convey deep philosophical and theological ideas to the uninitiated, as well as explain a handful of unavoidable specialized terms. He also fills the text with friendly illustrative examples of fictitious men and women facing moral dilemmas over commonplace issues with school, work, family, faith, and vocation.
The Christian Moral Life is a sound introductory textbook on the complexities of moral theology. Despite its relatively simple language and unwavering focus on human happiness as the central subject of moral theology, the text can understandably be difficult to follow at times.
“…humans attain eternal happiness through loving union with God..”
JOHN RZIHA
The complex interrelations among various steps of human actions, virtues, laws, gifts, and beatitudes can be challenging to piece together properly. This is, after all, a text on moral theology and not a self-help book, so readers must be ready to slow to a crawl at times to comprehend the richness of Catholic moral thought.
COMING IN JUNE 2020
The Christian Moral Life will be a valuable textbook for libraries and teachers educating undergraduate and graduate students in theology, but its many grammatical errors will need to be corrected if it ever goes into a second edition.
The Christian Moral Life written by John Rziha, Narrated by Andrew L. Barnes will be released in June 2020! This book takes listeners on a journey that requires the sojourner to know where they are, where they are going, and sets a our minds on the ultimate destination, happiness in the presence of God.
Moral theology examines the same three truths. The Christian Moral Life is a handbook for moral theology that uses the theme of a journey to explain its key ethical concepts.
“…the study of how humans attain eternal happiness through loving union with God by performing their proper actions with the aid of God’s grace.”
~ JOHN RZIHA
First, humans begin with their creation in the image of God. Secondly, the goal of the journey is explained as a loving union with God, to achieve a share in his eternal happiness. Third and finally, the majority of the book examines how to attain this goal. Within the journey motif, the book covers the moral principles essential for attaining true happiness.
Based on an examination of the moral methodology in the bible, the book discusses the importance of participating in divine nature through grace in order to attain eternal happiness.
It further notes the role of law, virtue, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit in guiding and transforming humans into friends of God, who participate in his happiness. Following this section on moral theology in general, the book analyzes the individual virtues to give more concrete guidance.
COMING IN JUNE 2020
The entire project builds upon the insights of great Christian thinkers, such as Thomas Aquinas, Thérèse of Lisieux, and John Paul II, to uncover the moral wisdom in scripture and to show people how to be truly happy both in this life and the next.
This book will be of great interest to undergraduate students of moral theology, priests and seminarians, parents and teachers seeking to raise and to form happy children, and anyone interested in discovering the meaning of true happiness.
