(In regards to Jeff Jared’s column “Confessions of an athiest”). “Atheism” is not really a viable option, “because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.” (Romans 1:19-20)

We Christians are not perfect, although we are challenged “to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48)

The essence of real Christianity is love. “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” (John 13:34) “This is my commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.” (John 15:12) “This I command you, that you love one another.” (John 15:17) How do we do this? “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4)

Jesus said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.” (John 5:24) What is “eternal life?” “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.” (John 17:3)

In America we have the liberty to believe in God, or not … “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” Jesus (John 11:25-26)

Eric Marrs, Kirkland

Applaud Jeff Jared’s column

I applaud the Reporter and Jeff Jared directly for the “Confessions of an atheist” short in your Sept. 2 publication. Keep up the open minds and the good work.

Tad Haas, Kirkland