Atheism: The theory or belief that God does not exist.

Yesterday, I posted a status update on my Facebook page about the upcoming National Atheists Convention which is being held here locally in Des Moines, Iowa this weekend.  Over 700 people are expected at the national convention, which happens to be taking place over Easter weekend.  According to WOI-TV, “the American Atheist National Convention is aware of the criticism surrounding the timing of Easter weekend, but says that will bring more attention to their cause.”

I had heard several weeks ago about the convention coming to town, but have yet not seen any of their billboards (pictured above), which the organizations raised over $15,000 to pay for. As I got to thinking about the convention and what their members stood for, and what they believed in, or actually– DON’T believe in… I became upset. Frankly, I was just sad. So I posted this on Facebook:

Little did I know, it would spark a flurry of comments and discussion:

It was interesting to read the thoughts and opinions of people I consider to be my friends. One of the individuals involved in the conversation is a family member. While so many people use Facebook as a way to gossip, play silly Farmville games, and take quizzes… sometimes there really can be important conversations happening among intelligent people. I learned some things yesterday.

I really do believe in the First Amendment. I do believe in free speech. It does make me sad that this organization exists, but I also have to recognize their right to exist and their right to practice their beliefs. Like someone brought up, would I be upset if it was a convention of Muslims? No, I wouldn’t. What about if it was a convention for any other religion? No.

And then yesterday, I realized something even more profound and I’m ashamed to even admit it.

These atheists? The ones who I claim make me sick to my stomach?

They are better than me.

Want to know why? Because they care enough about what they believe in to gather together in support of their cause. They are strong enough in their beliefs that they are willing to withstand criticism from society to publicly convene.

But I don’t support my own cause and beliefs. I still don’t take the time to go to church. I still don’t bother to read the Bible. I call myself a Christian and chastise those who are silly enough to not believe in God. I become disgusted at the sight of billboards that claim there is no God, and I am sad when I think of 700+ people gathering together contradicting the very religious beliefs I have been raised on.

But the only action I have taken in my life to fight back against their cause is a status on my Facebook page.

That needs to change.