Chapter 1: A Reflection on the Christian God

What does the Christian God signify to you? From my vantage point in rural England, where age-old parish churches stand with their hand-carved stone floors and bells resonate through the woodlands and over fields filled with wildflowers, I ponder this deeply.

For many, Christianity evokes images of elderly women serving tea and ushers moving slowly, perhaps having witnessed the aftermath of the Second World War. However, for me, it is a narrative that commences with a voice resembling the sound of rushing waters, proclaiming, "It is I. Do not be afraid."

This journey into faith raises a poignant question: Why would anyone fear a seemingly innocent infant or a man in sandals advocating love and peace? Why fear a God whose heart beats audibly, akin to a whimsical cartoon character? Why tremble at the sight of one who calms storms and commands nature?

The voice echoing through this vast landscape—both a genuine story and a metaphor—invites believers to tread upon dark waters. Even as calmness prevails, the turbulence rises again, urging them to step forward on the waves.

Last summer, I experienced a small boat trip from a secluded Greek island aboard a weathered fishing vessel. As night fell, the wind swirled like a shepherd's crook around the headland. Waves crashed onto the low deck, and each of us gripped tightly, knuckles whitening, stifling laughter born from panic.

In that moment, we shared an unspoken fear of drowning, yet chose to focus on the powerful currents beneath us.

For Christians, fear often becomes familiar before they truly understand God. Baptism immerses them in the depths, and as they rise, droplets cling to them like protective gear. Yet amid that fear—more accurately described as the unlearned language of reverence—they discover something intricate and indescribable: eyes like blazing flames, a body resembling topaz, feet like polished bronze, and a voice that commands authority.

This is not the image of a gentle baby or a peaceful hippie. This is the figure of a warrior.

Section 1.1: The Warrior God

Christians affirm that their God is a warrior (Exodus 15:3). While they may gather to worship and enjoy fellowship, it is crucial to remember that they should genuinely embrace the concept of a warrior.

After all, the figure they revere declared, "Do not think that I came to bring peace to the earth; I did not come to bring peace but a sword." This does not imply violence against humanity; rather, it signifies a spiritual battle. Jesus cursed nothing but a fig tree. The conflict is subtle yet profound, requiring a deeper understanding to grasp its essence.

The God of peace promises to soon crush Satan under our feet (Romans 16:20). When something is being subdued beneath us, it can feel as though we are being thrust into tumultuous waters, reminiscent of a disaster movie.

The voice of many waters stirs everything beneath, challenging us to confront the unseen battles. We may not fully comprehend what is transpiring, and this uncertainty can evoke a primal fear within us. However, we are reminded: "Do not be afraid."

So, while I may hesitate to trust water, if a warrior is battling a serpent on my behalf, I will attempt to walk upon those waves instead of succumbing to the darkness. Perhaps I will witness that fear transform into awe, illuminating my path like a stray buttercup or the sheen of steel as the earth is tilled.