You may see it as being focused on what comes after death, but for someone who does not share your beliefs the difference between that and focussing on death is very hard to see.
Yes, intellectually I can see the pattern, when you list all those things together. But the way I feel when you say it is more like, we've been looking forward to a present and you're accusing us of focusing on the box that it comes in.
FWIW, some of the things you list aren't unique to Christianity: psychology tells us that all people think about death, and the belief in reuniting with God after death in some form or other is common to several religions; in fact, I'd have said that all religions are about achieving some perceived form of immortality by connecting with the beyond. Also, some of the things you list are denominational: many of us don't allow the use of the cross as a symbol, or elevate people to 'sainthood' after they die.
Well, as usual, you've given me much to think about, and I do appreciate it. Thank you.
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Yes, intellectually I can see the pattern, when you list all those things together. But the way I feel when you say it is more like, we've been looking forward to a present and you're accusing us of focusing on the box that it comes in.
FWIW, some of the things you list aren't unique to Christianity: psychology tells us that all people think about death, and the belief in reuniting with God after death in some form or other is common to several religions; in fact, I'd have said that all religions are about achieving some perceived form of immortality by connecting with the beyond. Also, some of the things you list are denominational: many of us don't allow the use of the cross as a symbol, or elevate people to 'sainthood' after they die.
Well, as usual, you've given me much to think about, and I do appreciate it. Thank you.