Would you still worship God if you received no reward for it? I was always curious, how many Christians, Jews, Muslims, whatever faith you may be, would still worship if no reward would follow. If there was no heaven how many people would still donate to church organizations or church sponsored organizations, who many would PRETEND to be good, and so fourth if hell was not a consequence. …how strong or for how long could or would you keep that faith if there was no reward or consequences after death, if you simply became nonexistent, would there still be a need to be "saved"? ******************************************************************************************** It's hard to imagine an Eternal God, because He is a being of love, NOT wanting creatures He has poured out so much love upon, to spend eternity with Him. However, each lovely blossom in the garden is lifted in praise and each silently dies forever. To me, having the privilege of immersing myself in God's presence in worship is reward enough, getting to know Abba Father and rejoicing in His goodness. I never could get very excited about all the crowns we're supposed to receive until I was reminded that we get to cast them at Jesus' feet. The Apostle Paul said that if we only have hope for this life we are of all men most miserable. But if we had NO hope for this life, that would be misery at its' utmost. Salvation is more than "pie in the sky bye and bye", it is deliverance from the kingdom of darkness, and abundant life in the here and now. Of all the religions, philosophies and lifestyles I'm aware of, this is the one that maximizes the potential for the happiest life every day. It is also the only one where God is seeking man to have fellowship with Him ... instead of man striving after God through puny acts of intellect or self-exalting works. ********************************************************************************* All files c1999 Karleen E. Page, All Rights Reserved. ONE copy may be printed or copied to your PC for personal use only. Please email karleenp@earthlink.net for any other permissions. Thank You. Posted at "Ask OldTimer" www.members.tripod.com/~KarleenP/text/askoldtimer.htm