War of the Realms: Conquests & Consequences by Lee Watts

Author:Lee Watts [Watts, Lee]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2019-06-10T22:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 20

"For our God is a consuming fire." – Hebrews 12:29

Built hundreds of years prior, Theon, meaning Place of God was once a stone structure encompassing an entire block in Theera's capital city, Paran. Because of significant damage to the ancient edifice some years prior by 'an extremist,' a massive rebuilding effort was undertaken. With Hegemony support, the new Center for Religious Pursuits was now complete. A marvel of modern engineering, the elaborate mega-structure encompassed the very latest in materials and ergonomics.

In contrast to the simple design of Theon, the Center was a multi-level complex of meeting rooms, offices, gardens, galleries, worship arenas, and more. The construct teamed with symbols from every creed in the known universe. Unseen by the gathered mortals were Dridmor spirits and a fog of dark energy hovering slightly above the ground.

Vying for a position for the much-publicized opening ceremony, thousands of worshipers packed the Center's plaza. Already in position, Regent Yorin and Administrator Nexos were engaged in private conversation when Chief Mediator Wasi took his place on the official platform. Attending the holy mediator, Timotheus asked Yilib about the roped-off area where hundreds of clergy were beginning to gather.

"Oh, those are the various faith leaders who will facilitate worship," Yilib explained. "After the opening remarks, I'll invite them to lay hands on the building, and we'll lead the people in prayer."

Timotheus was confused.

"Forgive me, but I don't understand. If the others are praying to some other deity, aren't their prayers in vain? By inviting them to pray, won't the people think the Sect is validating those beliefs?"

"Don't distress, Arbiter. The other mediators and I will speak to the Elder for the people. As for validating the other faiths, as I've matured in spiritual matters and opened myself to the universe. It's as if the universe itself is communing with me. The more I empty my mind and listen to the universe, the more I think we are all praying to the same god. He, or she, I don't think it can really be described as either, takes many forms. It is the power of the universe and reveals itself in the best way to relate to each culture. We are all striving for the full realization of the human spirit. I've come to believe when we die our spirits join the oneness of the universe. We become part of god."

"But, what about Paradise and the Vortex? Didn't Elkanah say these are real places and there is only one God?" Timotheus asked?

"Yes, but we must broaden our definitions. As our life energy is freed, our essence joins with the universe. Any evils in a person also become part of that energy, as does good. As evil and hatred crush the spirit so does goodness free it. The essence of each person creates both Paradise and the Vortex. But I've come to understand these are more states of consciousness than actual locations. We are children of the universe; we are the universe."

Entering the plaza was a gray-clad old man with a tall, metal walking stick.

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