Reflection | Notre Dame

As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect.

     On April 15th a world cultural heritage site was struck with fire. The Notre Dame Catholic Cathedral in France. This site is a place of worship for Catholic Christians, as well as welcoming all who desire to take part in religious service. The site also extends beyond that of a place of worship, being a historical piece of architecture, a landmark, and even a local, national and international tourist attraction, that boosts the economy, and helps to maintain the site as well. The devastating fire was a cause for concern, as religious relics that are held precious to not only Catholic Christians, but also Christians around the world were subject to destruction. We could also include world religions who believe in Jesus. As Jesus' life, his living example is significant for Christians and Muslims as well. But I think the fire, which of course we wish could be reversed, also serves as a teaching mechanism.

     Sometimes love, or love for the sake of God teaches in opposites. Maybe the breakdown that many felt in France, and around the world reveals that. Whilst the Catholic Church is significant and thought of as the core for Rome, Italy, led by Pope Francis, the Vatican, and disciples around the world, we come to realize that there are sacred sites such as these, all over Europe, with the inclusion of Jerusalem, Israel. So whilst politicians, religious leaders as the macro level argue, commit or constrain relations based on foreign relations and allies. We can ask that really when it comes to religion and God, can we really constrain and confine at the level of national borders? As there is history to be preserved that extends beyond the concepts of allies, foreign relations, partnerships, or a specific form of Christianity. 

     If you think about it - isn't the history of Jesus' life precious to all forms of Christianity? So whilst the blaze struck, and parts of the cathedral were saved, we can take the time to reflect upon this symbol and wonder how it should serve to unite religious division within Christianity itself, and for all who believe and value the preservation of culture. In this case historical architecture and religious pieces. Whilst no one truly wishes to suffer for the sake of learning inclusion or religious inclusion; maybe the human itself or collective forms of mourning are needed to truly understand what is really important. In this case we can say that Jesus himself has once again suffered, to teach humans a lesson. Maybe it is also a time to realize the divisions that are also caused by politics, political leaders, and religious affiliations. Whilst the monetary response / donations from organizations is probably very much appreciated, we are called to once again ask and think about the human nature, human suffering that exists from systemic creations as well as countries around the world, and wonder why are humans left to suffer, and deteriorate even in a state of belief and worship. 

My thoughts to share with love & kindness! :) 

Notes: These thoughts were originally hand written on April 17th, 2019. 
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