MC Question where spiritual writing is concerned...

Well, I suppose you can try to incorporate aspects OF the other faiths. Many people compare Christianity with Buddhism so you might want to take that into consideration.

Well, what characteristics in particular are you trying to portray here?

Gee, my name sounds masculine. I'm actually a woman.

2007: Sick Bacchus (won!)
2008: Nocturne (won!)
2009: Like a Drug

Basically, my mc is going around "leading people" to God... much like Jesus did. (The Shepherd)

The characteristics I'd like to display in my mc are touch and go because He doesn't quite understand WHY he's called to do this and feels a bit of resentment, yet follows thru...

Basically, my mc has "visions" of people in need of spiritual guidance (whether they know it or not) and leads them in the right direction (often to his [mc's] own surprise)

So, do I need to explain how the mc is like Jesus, or do you think people will get that idea?

Read between the lies.

That's a great idea, however, I really don't want to incorporate aspects from ANY religion per say, I'd like this to be more about "spirituality" rather than any organized religion.

Do you think that could work?

Read between the lies.

One of the best surprised prophets is Jonah, mr got-et-by-the-whale. He didn't want to be a prophet, tried to get away (that was the whale thing), finally reluctantly went for it, and was annoyed when his prophesy was accepted (because he was preaching to the Assyrians, who had hurt Israel). It is truly a fine book of the Bible, and only about two or three pages long.
Might that be a model?

Birrell

Reminds me in some ways of Touched By an Angel ;-)

Although I'm not really sure how it is applicable to many other faiths...? Surely it's only applicable to Abrahamic religions, ones following that god? Of course that is to your advantage as it would be an obvious reference to Jesus. ;-) I don't think you need to explain it; it should be clear enough.

Gee, my name sounds masculine. I'm actually a woman.

2007: Sick Bacchus (won!)
2008: Nocturne (won!)
2009: Like a Drug

I'm a spiritualist, so maybe I can help.

The way to write without mentioning Jesus is to be an example.

You've heard the saying, 'God is love.' To lead by example would be to love unconditionally, no matter what. (Which is something Jesus would do.)

Do this experiment and you'll get a little taste of what I mean...

Take one day and love everything and everyone around you. I'm not talking about family, or pets...

I'm talking about when you're cut off on the road, don't get mad... send that person love.

If the cashier is taking too long, don't get impatient... send her love and understanding. Maybe she's having a bad day? Maybe she's disabled in some way?

If someone does something that is wrong, don't judge harshly... try to understand their reasons and give them love.

For some, this experiment is difficult and exhausting, because it's so easy to get angry and impatient. You have to try your hardest NOT to... ALL DAY!! The best way to do this experiment is in a crowded area, like a mall. You have to walk through that mall sending everyone love... no matter who they are or what they do.

By doing this experiment, you'll get a better feel for what your character is up against, and it will help with realism. You don't have to mention Jesus (you didn't say anything about not mentioning God, so that would help as to WHY he's doing this), but you can show, by example, how He would live his life.

This might also help you to write your novel, because, as I said before, you'll get a better feel of what your character is up against.

Of course, there's more to Jesus than what I mentioned... but it's a really great start.

I hope this helps. If you have any other questions, please message me. I'd be happy to help further.

You might try reading the New Testament books in the bible about Jesus - Matthew - Mark - Luke - John - and imagine your character experiencing those experiences, saying those words, encountering those types of people.

Some of the verses may not have anything to do with what you're trying to write. Others might seem very appealing, somehow right or a good fit. You could then imagine those in more modern dress, settings, language, etc. and that imagining might suggest something for your story.

It might also not be "Jesus" exactly who you are using as a model for your MC, but your own sense of what a "perfect" human being is like ... in which case you can follow your heart on the matter.

My advice, - pray about it. God will give you ideas, thoughts, pictures, and reveal ways to you that you could not think of on your own. I am praying for you and your novel as well. Sounds like it could bless many people.

Denise (Esther) Spooner
wwjd <>< Phil. 4:13
www.dailysunshine4u.blogspot.com
www.created2bless.blogspot.com/