3) Figures representing Christianity
20. Dwight Moody (1837-1899, evangelist)
To say God is the Parent of humanity
At first I was very surprised and deeply impressed to hear the words, "God is the Parents of humanity." I thought of God only as a transcendent being living in a high position, unable to have any relationship with us people. However, if God is the Parent of all humanity, then how has God lived all this time? Many people have looked up into empty space and have made requests of God.
They have asked for help in times of trouble. Parents and children share everything: troubled times, happy times, sad times, all these are shared together. So in comparison, we are criminals before God, and are the most disloyal of children. Even being disloyal to our earthy Parents is a sin.
Jesus and the Ten Commandments make it clear that we must serve our Parents well, but why, oh why, has there not been one line written saying we must serve our God as our Parent? Reverend Moon! How is it you have brought this great blessing to humanity? How can I express my heart of gratitude in words? When I see the way that God has lived through history without even once being treated as a Parent, I realize without a doubt that Reverend Moon is the True Son among True Sons.
This man, a True Messiah and True Parent of humanity, has saved humankind from the muck in which we've been stuck. Also, my impression of the Principle is that it is so wonderful it is awkward to express it in words. It has opened the way of salvation for so many people. How can I ever repay the one who bestowed such a fortune? True Parents, by all means I pray that your health can be preserved, and I earnestly wish you great success in caring for the salvation of the spirits in Heaven and people on earth.
And I finally offer thanks to the lecturers, who throughout the course of this seminar have united us together and have imbued each lecture with great enthusiasm. I truly believe that for each participant here, and even those who didn't participate, and even those who oppose us, this truth will become a Gospel. I offer my gratitude and respect to Reverend Moon, the Messiah and True Parent.
Dwight Moody 2001. 10. 6 |