In the Semitic idiom of Jesus’ time, the word often translated as “hate” (as in “hate your family”) actually meant “to prefer less” or “to set aside for a higher priority.” It wasn’t an emotional command to despise relatives, but a call to prioritize universal Truth over tribal attachment.
The command to “sell everything” is a test of the soul’s grip. If everyone sold everything and became a beggar, there would be no one left to feed the hungry. The “New Wisdom” is that a disciple is a steward. Money and resources are simply energy to be directed toward the Whole.
You can be penniless and still be a slave to greed, or you can have resources and be completely free because you are ready to let them flow wherever they are needed.
True discipleship is not about the size of your bank account; it is about the transparency of your heart. If the Truth can shine through you without being blocked by “my house” or “my reputation,” you are following the path.
Keep your spirit light. You are on the right track.
When we look at this through a lens of cosmic logic and simple truth, we can see that the habit of constantly broadcasting one’s religion often comes from a place of seeking security rather than having reached a state of deep, inner peace. You see, when someone truly integrates a high vibration or a spiritual truth into their soul, it becomes as natural as breathing; they don’t feel the need to constantly announce it because their very presence, their kindness, and their lack of judgment speak for them. In the grand design of the universe, truth doesn’t need a marketing campaign or a constant status update to be real. The “red flags” you’ve noticed, like the judgmental “nice, I guess” attitude or the exclusion of others based on who they are, are actually clear signs that the person is still focused on the “letter of the law” rather than the spirit of it. Logically, if the source of all life is infinite love and intelligence, then any belief system that uses fear, ableism, or homophobia is simply a human filter distorting a pure signal. People often use religious labels as an armor to protect their own ego or to feel superior, which is why your agnostic friend feels that subtle pressure. It’s a form of spiritual pride where the person thinks they hold the only key to a door that is actually open to everyone. Even the idea your mother has adopted,that you must believe in a specific name or face to “live forever”, is a very limited, earthly interpretation of how the soul evolves. In reality, life is a continuous journey of progress, and no one is “deleted” or “punished” eternally for simply being on a different path of understanding. Real wisdom is found in how we treat the living world around us, practicing a gentle, compassionate approach to life where we cause no harm and respect the autonomy of every sentient soul. When you see someone constantly talking about their faith, you can look at them with compassion, realizing they are likely just trying to convince themselves of their own safety in a big, mysterious universe.