What I may intend for a story to communicate and what a story ends up communicating could be two different things. And it could be an even more positive thing.

Religion is intended to facilitate hope and faith. Much like a path is intended to facilitate a journey.

On the eve of the cross, Jesus made his decision. He would rather go to hell for you than go to heaven without you.

I choose gentleness... Nothing is won by force. I choose to be gentle. If I raise my voice may it be only in praise. If I clench my fist, may it be only in prayer. If I make a demand, may it be only of myself.

Write today's worries in sand. Chisel yesterday's victories in stone.

You'll get through this. It won't be painless. It won't be quick. But God will use this mess for good. In the meantime don't be foolish or naïve. But don't despair either. With God's help you will get through this.

God grants us an uncommon life to the degree we surrender our common one.