Fulfillment Found: Christ vs. Alternative Longings

December 23, 2024

With Christmas just around the corner — a holiday that celebrates Christ’s birth, even though the exact date is unknown — I wanted to reflect on the power of walking the path of Christ, especially as someone who has explored various spiritual paths such as eastern faiths, New Age, and the occult since I was 14.

From that age onward, I became disillusioned with what I thought was the path of Christ. Like the prodigal son in the Bible, I wandered away, only to eventually humble myself and return home. As I’ve mentioned in another essay, one of the reasons I walked away was because I judged the entire faith on certain people or institutions. But individuals or institutions don’t always represent what it actually means to follow Christ — they might not be living according to what is actually written in scripture.

Just because someone grows up Christian or regularly attends church (what some call churchianity) doesn’t automatically mean they’re truly following Christ Jesus. Actually following Jesus is an intimate, supernatural way of life, marked by real fruit — miracles, deep peace, resilience in adversity, and a humbling awareness of our own brokenness in light of God’s glory. It means putting God at the center of everything.

From the outside, Jesus-followers may come across as corny, outdated, obsessed, or crazy. I know because this is exactly how I viewed Jesus-followers — a group of mindless sheep trapped in cultural cages. But in hindsight, I realize that I was simply just lost in my own pride.

I’ve come to realize that the path of Christ actually satisfies all the core desires I was chasing when I drifted away from my roots. Things like connection to the divine, purpose, peace, shadow work, transformation, and more — everything people often seek in alternative paths — are all found here, within a faith that’s dynamic, creative, and alive.

I want to highlight 10 desires people pursue through other paths, which already have their wholesome counterpart in the path of Christ.

1. Connection to the Divine

John 15:4–5 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

In many alternative paths, practices like meditation, visualization, or connecting with Creation — often referred to as “The Universe” — are common ways to try and connect to the “divine.” Yet this search is usually rooted in works. By works, I mean the burden falls entirely on the individual to “level up” to higher realms or vibrations — to essentially save yourself.

The trap here is that this self-focus can easily become self-aggrandizing. When you’re doing all the work yourself, there’s no real need for God. You become the one climbing the ladder, reaching for divinity on your own, like being in some kind of spiritual video game. At its extreme, this mindset becomes solipsism — the belief that you alone are the center of the world, essentially becoming your own God or Goddess. I was dangerously close to that degree of hubris myself, but was saved by God’s grace and very likely my mother’s constant prayers.

In contrast, Christ offers a completely different way. Connection with the divine doesn’t come through striving — it comes through surrender. Jesus serves as the bridge between our world and the mystery of Father God. The “work” has already been finished on the cross. Our role isn’t to hustle or climb; it’s to receive — to follow, love, and let Jesus carry the burdens we were never meant to bear — to have a personal, intimate relationship with Christ Jesus.

And there’s still plenty of space for meditation, contemplation, and visualization — centered on the wisdom found in scripture. One can also experience God’s grace through the Holy Spirit, which some people recognize as the voice of their conscience.

This path leaves little room for boasting, except in our weakness, as the apostle and “holy fool,” Paul, states, because the glory belongs entirely to Christ. In humility, we find rest, blessings, and grace. And while it’s definitely a “work” in progress for me, it’s a radically different way of “working.”

Simply put, the difference is in striving for connection through one’s own efforts versus receiving it as a gift through a relationship with Christ Jesus. And that gift is always there — one just has to sincerely want it. This is a far greater gift than anything we could receive this Christmas.

2. Inner Peace & Rest

Matthew 11:28–30 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

In alternative practices, meditation, mindfulness, and manifestation are often employed in the pursuit of peace. While these practices may have value, their potential is limited if they’re disconnected from God. The path of Christ offers an advocate — the Prince of Peace himself, Jesus.

Sure, it might sound way too simple, but if peace is truly guaranteed, what’s actually holding people back?

3. Purpose & Meaning

Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

In alternative practices, the search for meaning often includes things like vision quests, astrology, energy work (such as tantra), and a mix of various other practices, often combined like a buffet. In contrast, the path of Christ offers a God-centered purpose: to glorify God and enjoy God, with a unique calling to the Kingdom. The focus shifts away from worldly personal desires and instead centers on a desire for God.

As a result, we are filled with love, the Holy Spirit, and peace, even through adversity. We find deep purpose and meaning, and the Holy Spirit speaks through us. This has been my experience — I’ve heard God’s guidance and simply acted on it. My Theokinesis project, for instance, and deep desire to share Christ’s love are all part of simply listening to the call happening inside me — which to me, is the Holy Spirit.

4. Healing & Wholeness

James 5:14–15 Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up.

In alternative practices, people may turn to “energy healing,” crystals, and various holistic methods. While these healing modalities, like western and eastern medical practices, may work to some degree, the path of Christ offers a deeper healing — a healing of spirit and soul through personal and communal prayer. This is not something to be underestimated.

The root issues of sin and brokenness are addressed, rather than just the surface-level symptoms. From there, the body may experience healing, which often leads people to either accept Christ or strengthen their relationship with Him. Miracles do happen, and these healings often become a big part of people’s testimonies.

5. Transformation & Growth

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

In alternative practices, the focus is often on personal growth, higher “consciousness,” and self-improvement, with the aim of reaching a more “enlightened” or evolved state. However, true transformation in Christ comes through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It’s not just about becoming a better version of yourself — it’s about becoming a new creation. The old self, with all its brokenness and sin, dies, and the new self, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is made alive in Christ. This transformation is a lifelong journey, a process of sanctification, where our minds are renewed and we grow into the likeness of Christ, learning to harmonize our will to God’s will. It’s a deep, supernatural change, not based on our own efforts, but on God’s grace at work within us.

6. Movement and Creativity

2 Samuel 6:14 And David danced before the Lord with all his might.

Since returning to Christ, I’ve often wondered why so many retreats and festivals engage artistically with nearly every world tradition except Christianity, as if it’s seen as incapable of contributing to art and creativity.

These festivals and retreats often embrace movement, dance, art, and other creative expressions as ways to channel energy or connect spiritually. But in the Christ path, creativity takes on a much deeper significance — it becomes an act of worship. Just as David danced before the Lord with all his might (2 Samuel 6:14), we, too, can express our faith and joy through movement, art, and music.

Creativity is not just an individual expression; it reflects God’s image as the ultimate Creator. In Colossians 3:16, we are encouraged to let the word of Christ dwell richly in us, singing and moving with gratitude in our hearts. Black churches know how to do this incredibly well. Worship through creativity becomes a way to glorify God, expressing our hearts in a way that points back to God.

My project, Theokinesis, is all about cranking up the volume of creativity while simultaneously pointing to God.

7. A Sense of Rebellion and Non-Conformity

Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

In alternative paths, there’s often an appeal to counter-cultural identity, rejecting traditional norms and embracing a different way of living. Yet, in the Christ path, followers are called to live counter to “the world.” The rebellion here is not against human traditions; it’s against sin and worldly systems that oppose God’s ways. Our rebellion is in choosing God’s ways over the empty pursuits of this world. The world’s pursuits always leave us lacking and wanting more, but the Christ path is a wellspring that keeps on giving.

8. Mystery and Wonder

Colossians 1:26–27 The mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

Alternative practices often revolve around a fascination with the mystical and the unknown, seeking to uncover hidden truths or divine secrets. In the path of Christ, we encounter profound mystery — not hidden knowledge — but direct mystical experience. The mystery of the Incarnation, the Trinity, and God’s unfolding plan of salvation are awe-inspiring and have long been explored by saints, mystics, theologians, and philosophers. The depths of Christ’s theology and ways are not meant to be fully understood but to be experienced with awe and wonder.

9. Intimacy

1 John 4:10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.

Alternative paths often emphasize sexual liberation, viewing freedom of expression as a way to connect with one’s “true self.” While this comes from a desire for love and intimacy, it often leads to temporary satisfaction rather than lasting, meaningful connection. Beneath this is a deeper longing for true, unconditional, and selfless love — the kind of love shown by God in sending His Son to die for us.

The path of Christ offers a different approach, where love is about giving oneself to another in commitment and trust. Marriage is seen as a sacred bond that reflects Christ’s love for His people, marked by mutual respect, honesty, and faithfulness. Through this union, people experience not only physical intimacy but emotional and spiritual connection, mirroring God’s sacrificial love. True love in the Christ path is self-giving, forgiving, and life-giving.

10. Community and Belonging

Hebrews 10:24–25 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

In alternative paths, there is a focus on finding like-minded individuals through workshops, retreats, and circles, creating a sense of belonging and connection. The path of Christ can offer a deep and lasting sense of community. 1 Corinthians 12:27 reminds us that we are the body of Christ, each one of us an individual member, but all working together for God’s purposes. It’s a beautiful thing if one hasn’t experienced it before. Hebrews 10:24–25 urges us not to neglect meeting together, but to encourage one another to love and engage in good works. In the body of Christ, true belonging is found — not just in shared experiences, but in our common purpose to live out God’s calling and mission.

Conclusion

So after many years of seeking, I’ve discovered that the core desires of seeking in alternative practices are not only met but surpassed in Christ. The path of Christ offers a loving relationship with God, a deeper purpose, and lasting peace. True Christianity is not merely a set of dead rules or rituals; it’s a vibrant, living relationship with our maker. The path satisfies the deepest longings of the human heart, offering true transformation, creativity, belonging, and awe. It’s an invitation to explore not just a belief system, but the living, breathing reality of God’s love and grace.

As for me, I will continue to grow in my faith, integrating it with my artistic career. I know I may face criticism and even offend some, but my goal isn’t to elevate myself. Instead, I want to offer a different perspective on life — especially for those who may have had negative experiences with what they thought a life in Christ was.

For anyone who is curious or wants to learn more, feel free to reach out anytime. I’m here to serve as a Jesus-follower.