DAY 348 - INPIRATIONAL PEOPLE - JESUS CHRIST

Day 348

Let me start off by saying that I was raised Catholic. Growing up, I believed that Jesus Christ was the son of God. Later on, I developed my own sets of beliefs. Nevertheless, I have always believed that  that Jesus truly existed and led a life that could serve as an inspiration to us all.

Contrarily to what many may think, Jesus Christ was not born in the year 0.  Most scholars agree on that because of astronomical signs recorded in the Bible and different political events of the time; Jesus was probably born in 4 or 6 BC. 

His story was written about 50 to 100 years after his death.  There have been many debates on who the authors of the Gospels.  Until this day, there isn't a real consensus. However, because of similarities between the various accounts of his life, the accuracy of some elements of his life are no longer disputed.  Many Gospels were found.  However, four of them (Mark, Luke, John and Matthew) are considered by Christians as authentic.

Very little is known from Jesus' early years.  We do know that he was born into Judaism from Joseph and Mary of Nazareth, that his father was a carpenter, and that he learned that trade from him.  We also know that he was born during the Roman Empire, in a time of great political turmoil.

Some have suggested that during his youth, Jesus travelled to India and Persia where he learned something of India's spiritual tradition before returning to Nazareth to begin his ministry.  His teachings definitely bear similarities to Eastern spirituality.

Jesus gave up all worldly possessions ant traveled around preaching love and forgiveness.  In that way, he set himself apart from old scriptures which had an 'eye for an eye' approach.  He also talked about the fact that the "Kingdom of Heaven" was within all of us, and that to attain this state, we should all be willing to live in simplicity and give up attachment to worldly possessions.

"The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; nor will they say, `Lo, here it is!' or `There!' for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you (or "within you") Luke 17:20

Jesus was also known as a healer. The gospels recount many miracles where Jesus was able to heal the sick and even resurrect the dead (Lazarus).

Jesus used his power to help others.  He welcomed outcasts, people at the margins, and people who were

ostracized.  He embraced everyone regardless of their social situation or physical condition.

No matter if you believe that Jesus was the son of God or not, no one can deny that he was an exceptional human being in touch with a spiritual world very few of us ever access.  He used his faith and power to better the world around him.

Unfortunately, history has shown that his message was sometimes lost in the hands of power hungry people.   I still believe that his philosophy and way of life have inspired and continue to inspire millions of people who follow his path and, through every day gestures, positively impact the lives of others.