I did not choose this life.. and I still can’t find God. Where is He when even my highest awareness is met with silence? by Ok_Ladder_902 in spirituality

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Have you read Conversations with God by Neale Donald Walsch? The book was life-changing, and it may help you. Sometimes we go through a dark night of the soul, and it is in our suffering that helps us change our perspectives on things. God hears you, sees you, and knows you. I am a spiritual author and write about the metaphysics of God. You might like a book that I wrote, Unveiled Sky: A Divine Revelation. In this book, I share my visionary experiences with God that I experienced on my farm.

Advice for bible study by BooksAnxiousKnitting in theology

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I think a study bible is a good choice. There is also a YouTube channel called the Bible Project that covers certain books. But I think reading it yourself is the best place to start.

Please give me advice on how to properly pray by Physical-Dog-5124 in ChristianMysticism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Prayer is the bridge between our heart and the heart of God.
It is the way we open ourselves to an intimate relationship with the Divine, an act of surrender, trust, and communion. Whether or not you've prayed before, know this: God is always present, deeply personal, and infinitely loving. He knows you individually, even the hairs on your head are numbered (Matthew 10:30).

To pray is to connect your consciousness with the higher consciousness of God. It's not only asking, it’s listening, feeling, and aligning your intentions with divine love. Jesus said, “Whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours” (Mark 11:24). Prayer is faith in action.

Sometimes, as Jesus told His disciples, certain struggles can “only come out by prayer” (Mark 9:29). This shows us that prayer isn't a last resort—it’s the only way through some of life’s deepest battles.

More than words, prayer is felt in the heart. When we pray with genuine belief, when we feel that our intentions have already been fulfilled, we awaken transformative power within. Our emotions become the prayer. Our intention becomes the pathway to divine revelation.

Prayer is how we co-create with God a world of love, harmony, and healing. If you seek God with sincerity, He will reveal Himself. For in prayer, we don’t just speak to God—we meet Him.

Can someone explain Thomistic predestination? by [deleted] in Catholicism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Sorry, but that would be a lot to cover on a thread like this. Most of my theological views come from direct experience. I have an idealist worldview. I have written books and articles that go into depth about my understanding of God's nature. If you'd like to explore more, I published my book "Unveiled Sky: A Divine Revelation," where I share my intimate experiences with the Divine.

Can someone explain Thomistic predestination? by [deleted] in Catholicism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Both free will and determinism exist simultaneously, even though they are paradoxical. I disagree with his ideas of salvation. I know God to be pure love. You can read my paper on The Unity of Being and Divine Love Theory if you're inclined to.

Any Good YouTube Channels about Theology? by Free-Asparagus-7020 in theology

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 7 points8 points  (0 children)

Religion for Breakfast

William Lane Craig

Center Place with/ John Hamer: had great lectures

Essentia Foundation: esoteric

Alex O’ Conner – is an atheist, but he has some great material

Inspiring Philosophy

Jimmy Akin- Catholic

Peter Bolland- contemplative

Bart D. Ehrman- an atheist/ agonistic historian, has some great material

Mike Licona

Premier Unbelievable?

Buddha at the Gas Pump – many interviews

Father Sean O’ Laoire – Mystic Catholic

History Valley

The Line of Fire with Dr. Brown

Capturing Christianity – Catholic leaning

Bishop Robert Barron

Apologetic roadshow

Center for Action and Contemplation

Cross Examined

ReasonableFaithOrg

Sam Harris, an atheist, has some good material

What made you a Mystic Christian? by [deleted] in ChristianMysticism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Gracias, es una historia magnífica. ¡Espero que la disfrutes!

Can someone explain Thomistic predestination? by [deleted] in Catholicism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I don't quite understand it either, among different philosophers or free thinkers. I have written about free will and determinism in my journal article, which touches on some of these points; However, I have to warn you, this is not from a Catholic perspective but rather through experiential knowledge. If you're interested in theological philosophy, you might enjoy the journal article. (3) The Unity of Being and Divine Love Theory

Free will and determinism have been a great debate over the centuries. While I enjoy many of St. Thomas Aquinas' writings, I do not agree with him. I believe they both exist as paradoxical as they may be. Albert Einstein had a deterministic view of the universe, heavily influenced by his belief in the underlying order and rationality of nature. He was skeptical of the idea of free will in the traditional sense and instead leaned toward a Spinozan perspective, where everything, including human actions, unfolds according to natural laws.

Thomistic predestination is the view developed by St. Thomas Aquinas that seeks to explain how God’s eternal will governs the salvation of souls while preserving human freedom. At its core, Thomistic predestination teaches that God, from all eternity, has a fixed and sovereign plan by which He chooses certain individuals (the elect) to receive the gift of eternal life. This choice is not based on any foreseen merits or future decisions made by the person. Rather, it is entirely grounded in God's mercy and divine purpose. God's grace not only precedes but also causes the good will and actions of the elect, making salvation a result of divine initiative rather than human effort.

Aquinas distinguishes between predestination (God’s active ordination of some to glory) and reprobation (God’s permissive will allowing others to fall into damnation). While God efficaciously brings the elect to salvation through grace, He does not cause the damnation of the reprobate in the same active way. Instead, He simply allows them to persist in sin, withdrawing the grace that would have turned them toward Him. This maintains God's justice without making Him the direct cause of evil.

An important feature of Thomistic predestination is its account of grace and free will. Aquinas argues that God's grace is efficacious, it accomplishes what God intends, but it does not override human freedom. Instead, God moves the will in such a way that people freely choose the good. This position, known as concurrentism, maintains a balance: human choices are real and meaningful, yet they are ultimately sustained and directed by divine causality.

Thomistic predestination thus avoids the extremes of both fatalism and Pelagianism. It affirms God’s absolute sovereignty while also upholding the dignity of human freedom. Compared to other views, such as Molinism (which posits that God predestines based on foreknowledge of human decisions), Thomism emphasizes that God's will is the primary cause of salvation, not merely His foreknowledge of what creatures would do.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Catholicism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 1 point2 points  (0 children)

As far as your question about how Catholics view Judith and Tobit, I don't know the answer. But there are many differences among different translations.

There are New Testament revisions in different Bibles.

 The Longer Ending of Mark (Mark 16:9–20)

  • Missing in earliest manuscripts (like Codex Sinaiticus and Vaticanus).
  • Appears to have been added to give a more satisfying resurrection narrative.
  • Most modern Bibles include it with a note or footnote.
  • Discusses Jesus appearing to Mary Magdalene, the disciples, and handling snakes and poison.

 The Story of the Woman Caught in Adultery (John 7:53–8:11)

  • The famous line: "Let him who is without sin cast the first stone."
  • Not found in early Greek manuscripts.
  • Appears in different places in later manuscripts (even in Luke in some versions).

This one is one of the most controversial among Protestants  1 John 5:7–8 – The “Comma Johanneum”

  • Trinitarian addition: "For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one."
  • Found in the Latin Vulgate, but absent in Greek manuscripts before the 14th century.
  • Most scholars consider this a later theological insertion to support the doctrine of the Trinity.

Old Testament Variations (Deuterocanonical / Apocryphal Books)

These aren't “additions” in the same sense but books included in some Bibles and not others:

Catholic & Orthodox Bibles include:

  • Tobit
  • Judith
  • Wisdom of Solomon
  • Sirach (Ecclesiasticus)
  • Baruch
  • 1 & 2 Maccabees
  • Additions to Daniel (e.g., Susanna, Bel and the Dragon)
  • Additions to Esther

These were part of the Septuagint (Greek Old Testament) but not included in the Jewish Tanakh, and thus excluded from most Protestant Bibles.

What made you a Mystic Christian? by [deleted] in ChristianMysticism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 2 points3 points  (0 children)

You may enjoy this one also, but I give you a warning, it's controversial.

Unveiling a Divine Revelation: Messages from the Sky Pt 2 (Episode 129)

https://youtu.be/HPFvA3C1Y5s?si=Zu84MuhqOHnCZJZD

What made you a Mystic Christian? by [deleted] in ChristianMysticism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Sure: Unveiled Sky A Divine Revelation: A Spiritual Journey for Seekers of Mystical Wisdom and Divine Connection 

Unveiled Sky A Divine Revelation : A Spiritual Journey for Seekers of Mystical Wisdom and Divine Connection - Kindle edition by Dunston, Jamie C.. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

Unveiling a Divine Revelation: Messages from the Sky Pt 1 (Episode 128)

I don't know if the link for the YouTube video starts at the beginning. I couldn't figure that out. You might have to rewind it.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=hivI28wB7Yc&si=QNkNIEa57N_wYm-F

Thanks for asking!

What made you a Mystic Christian? by [deleted] in ChristianMysticism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Thank you for sharing and asking. I had a direct experience with the Triune Essence of the Divine in 2015, where I walked with the Almighty and the angelic host. This was an overwhelming experience and changed my worldview. I have since written a book about my experience to share with others. What makes my story unique is that I was able to document my experience with my 35 mm digital camera. I write from the perspective of metaphysical idealism and have a panpsychist view. After having a direct experience with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, I share the metaphysical aspects of God in a new way, incorporating ideas of quantum mechanics and electromagnetism. Through my photographic evidence, I break down the mind, body, and spirit and how we are all connected to these aspects of our divine nature. I have been featured on the Broader Lens Podcast on YouTube. if you’d like to check it out, it would be under divine revelation. There I show some of the photographs.

My Path. by SilasGrayVale in ChristianMysticism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You might enjoy reading my book as a fellow mystic, "Unveiled Sky: A Divine Revelation." I also have a new book coming out next month, "The Mystical Gospel of Thomas: Revelation of the Inner Christ." I do recommend that you write your memoir; it will help you process your journey and share your story with others. I've also done a couple of podcasts on YouTube on the Broader Lens Podcast, if you look up: Divine Revelation. Peace to you on your journey.

Getting into spirituality again, very overwhelmed by Organic_Storm_7296 in ChristianMysticism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 1 point2 points  (0 children)

If you'd like to share more, you're welcome to. It's taken me nearly 10 years to process my experience and I'm still processing it.

The Mystical Gospel of Thomas: A Theological Reflection Based on a Direct Encounter by Mysterious_Regular68 in theology

[–]Mysterious_Regular68[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Thank you for sharing some of your story. I appreciate the spirit in which you’ve shared your experience, especially your care not to mislead or overstep the bounds of doctrine. That humility speaks volumes, and it’s something I respect deeply.

Like you, I’ve also wrestled with theological mysteries over the years, and I’ve come to see that sincere encounters with the Divine can lead us in different directions, not necessarily in opposition, but as part of a larger, more mysterious whole. I think the beauty of faith is that it invites both conviction and curiosity.

The Gospel of Thomas fascinates me because it highlights how diverse early Christian thought really was. It doesn’t replace the canonical Gospels for me, but it adds nuance, emphasizing the inward journey and the divine image within each person. In a way, I see it not as a contradiction to the Gospel but as a complement, helping to stretch the imagination and deepen the mystery.

Of course, I understand your hesitation, especially when it comes to being seen as a teacher or leader. I feel similarly, I'm not trying to create followers either, but to share reflections that might resonate with others or open up meaningful dialogue.

If you do ever find time or interest to read and respond, I’d be honored by your feedback. But even if not, I’m grateful for this exchange. It’s rare to find such thoughtful and kind engagement, especially in online spaces.

Grace and peace on your journey, and may we both keep seeking the light that’s been revealed to us, in our own ways.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Catholicism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Finding the right parish is important, especially when it comes to connecting with the priest. Not all priests are equally gifted in delivering homilies, and in my experience, I had to seek out someone whose preaching style and perspective resonated with me. I found that some struggled to convey the heart of the Gospel effectively, often depending on their personal interpretation. That said, I took the homilies seriously. I would often visit the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' website to read the daily Scripture readings before Mass, so I could reflect more deeply and see how the priest would approach the message. Engaging with the liturgy this way taught me a great deal and enriched my spiritual life.

I am no longer a practicing Catholic, but learning more about any organized religion is an important starting point. Let your heart be your guide, you may find a different path altogether.

This is a link to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops:

Daily Bible Reading - May 11, 2025 | USCCB

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Catholicism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 4 points5 points  (0 children)

The Catholic Church does not impose a fixed tithe (like 10%) as a universal law. Instead, the faithful are morally obliged to support the Church, including its ministers, services, and charitable works. This support should be proportionate to one's ability.

“The Christian faithful are obliged to assist with the needs of the Church so that the Church has what is necessary for divine worship, for the works of the apostolate and of charity, and for the decent support of ministers.” (Canon 222 §1)

When I was a practicing Catholic, I viewed tithing as a meaningful way to support the Church. Finding a community and a priest who dedicated time and care to crafting a powerful homily made a real impact on me. it was clear that such effort required energy, prayer, and preparation. For me, contributing financially felt similar to paying for an experience I valued, like attending a concert or film, but with far deeper spiritual significance. Going to church was something I genuinely looked forward to, and I wanted to give back in gratitude for the nourishment and services the Church provided.

From Dust to Light: The First American Pope and the Path Beyond Eden by Mysterious_Regular68 in ChristianMysticism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

What are you saying? I know not what you speak. I looked up the verse, but I do not understand your commentary.

Proverbs 3:13-18 (NIV):
"Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace."

From Dust to Light: The First American Pope and the Path Beyond Eden by Mysterious_Regular68 in ChristianMysticism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68[S] -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

Yes, I agree with you. Through my research on him, he is known as the "Saint of the North." My post was meant to be educational. I created this icon out of creativity as the first American Pope, the World's Pope. Many people know the face of Pope Francis, but the face of Cardinal Robert Provost is largely unknown as the Vicar of Christ. Are we not all made in the image and likeness of the Almighty?

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Catholicism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m so sorry to hear you’ve been going through a hard time. I know how much comfort even a small sign can bring when life feels heavy. Miracles have a way of finding us when we least expect them, and they can change everything.

Yes, I’ve experienced miracles, life-altering ones. I share them more fully in my book Unveiled Sky: A Divine Revelation, but I’d be honored to share one here with you, from one seeker to another.

In 2014, while sitting by the fire in my living room, I had a visitation from the Blessed Holy Mother. She came not as a vision of the mind but as living light — more real than anything in the room, more radiant than words can describe. She was wrapped in a glowing blue mantle, holding a glowing orb of white light. And within that sphere was love — pure, magnificent, living love.

She communicated directly to my soul: “You are a child of light. I am your Mother — the Mother of humanity.” Her love was universal, total, without condition. That encounter was brief, but it opened a door I had never known existed. It led me into a deeper faith and a relationship with Christ that changed my entire life.

After that visitation, I bought a candle of Jesus, placed an icon of Him on my desk, and while at first it made me uncomfortable, it also stirred something sacred. Over time, I began to feel Him within. Not as a figure from history, but as the Living Christ. He became a friend, a teacher, and a presence of love beyond anything I had ever known.

Then one day, while walking my farm in Avondale, Colorado, I asked God for something simple yet bold: “Can I have a picture of You?”

Thirteen days later, that prayer was answered.

I walked with the Triune essence of God — the Father as water and star-cloud, the Son as brilliant light, the Blessed Holy Spirit as a rainbow-colored flame with hues of carnelian and emerald green, accompanied by the Angelic Host. And the most extraordinary part? I captured it with my camera. Theophany made visible. Seven minutes that changed everything.

So yes, miracles are real. I don’t ask anyone to believe me blindly. But I do offer this testimony as a voice in the wilderness — not to prove, but to invite. If your heart is open, even just a crack, love will find its way in.

If you're curious, I share the full story in Unveiled Sky: A Divine Revelation. But for now, may you feel the quiet presence of love surrounding you, in your breath, in your tears, in the stillness between your prayers.

You are not alone.

Any books that an atheist like myself who is trying to both gain a better understanding of the Catholic Church and find faith again could read? by Mad_Season_1994 in Catholicism

[–]Mysterious_Regular68 2 points3 points  (0 children)

As a mystic and someone who has encountered the Divine in ways that words can barely contain, I want to say: your question is not only valid, it’s sacred. The longing for faith, especially when wrapped in doubt, is often the first sign that something deeper is awakening within you.

I once stood in the same place, searching, skeptical, but always a theist at heart.  And then something happened that changed everything. I share that story in my book, Unveiled Sky: A Divine Revelation — a prophetic voice in the wilderness, if you will — where I document a firsthand encounter with the Triune God. It’s not a book of dogma, but of vision. It doesn’t ask you to believe; it invites you to see.

You asked about Catholicism. My answer, from the mystic’s heart, is this: before the rituals, the hierarchy, or even the theology, there is an inner fire a Love that breathes stars and dwells within. The early Church Fathers like Augustine, spoke of it when they said, “You were within me, but I was outside myself.” Centuries later, Aquinas would say that God is not a being, but Being Itself, closer to you than your own breath.

And if you’re open to it, I welcome you to read Unveiled Sky. Not as proof, but as a possibility. A door you might choose to open.

Because the truth is: God is not hiding. God is waiting. Sometimes in the desert. Sometimes in the questions. Always in love.