First Church of Mars
This book was not written for the church.
There are enough books written that expand upon Christian morals and
values. There are volumes of theological works from a countless number of
Christian perspectives. A brief glimpse into history uncovers a history of scandal
and abuse all perpetrated by the hands of the early Christian church. At this
writing, there is a vast Christian subculture with its own art, music, fashion, and
cultural forms of expression. Television personalities preach biblical themes of
humility and servitude while, at the same time, they purchase private jets and
live in ridiculous excess. Small churches are closing at an alarming rate, and larger
congregations are getting obscured in the smoke and hype of commercialized
worship services. Arguments against "the faith" are becoming increasingly
articulate, and media coverage continues to cast a growing shadow over whatever
good the church might be accomplishing in the world.
In all this, it is easier than ever to be lost.
This book is written for the lost.
It originated as a result of an epiphany based on an article about the Curiosity
rover on the surface of Mars. Once a year, Curiosity would stop and celebrate the
anniversary of its arrival on Mars by stopping briefly to sing "Happy Birthday"
to itself. Then, once again, it continues through the dry desolation of the planet
surface on a path of discovery. When you stop and look past all the scholarly
debate and man-made traditions of Christianity and look at the basic message of
love and salvation presented in the scriptures, you will discover a beautiful picture.
Over time, the simplicity and accessibility of this message has been diluted and
overcomplicated. This book is written for the lost soul who, with a little bit of
curiosity, has a desire to discover the simplicity of that message.
It might be too late to change this world...but maybe we can change that one.
-- Dennis McFarland