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I believe it takes a lot more faith to be an Atheist than a Christian.

I say that because of my scientific training (BS, MS, tons of undergrad and masters courses in biochemistry, physiology, anatomy, neurophysiology) As I peer into the visible inner workings of a cell, and then contemplate those things that occur at a level even beyond the viewing range of my microscopes, I am in awe.

When I look at the diversity of life on this planet, and how each creature and plant is collection of specialized cells that do nothing but work together in a complicated biochemical symphony to keep that creature alive, I am in awe.

When I contemplate the natural world, the stars and planets (all of which are way out side of my training) I am in awe.

But what awes me the most is the fact that some how, all these complex systems come together perfectly for you and I to be here.

Now, some will say that it all occurred ex nihilo. I just can't believe that. They will tell me that it is all just a spontaneous event in which all came together. Sorry, the more I learn, the more I cannot, will not, believe it. The more I learn, the closer I come to seeing the hand of God, in the baby that I am birthing, in the dying who I am comforting and praying with. I see God.

I hear constant howls of protest from atheists, that more people have died in the name of religion, that God allows suffering, and on and on. They look at scandal inside the church (both Catholic and Protestant) and use that as an example of the flaws of Christianity. They look at these things and fail to realize that it is all a part of why we need God, because we will mess up everything we attempt. We are flawed. Christians and atheists, all of us.

I say to those that they think they understand Christianity, but they aren't putting forth the critical thought to truly break it down to its basic level: You don't understand Christianity. What is that level? Me and God, and God's expectation of me, and how I cannot reach it. Then and only then can I understand my role in being kind to the down and out. My role in feeding the poor, in working to help those who are at a lesser state than myself. Just as importantly, to be satisfied that I have not reached, nor probably ever, will reach the level of Bill Gates. Then and only when I understand my role, can I rest in this life.

Well, gotta run. I'm sure I've posted more than enough flaming material..