The human heart is on a continual quest for meaning, truth, and liberation from suffering. In every culture and tradition, this universal longing finds expression in profound questions: What is the ultimate truth? Can suffering be overcome? Is there a path to lasting peace and eternal life? Buddhism offers reflections on these questions, emphasizing mindfulness, compassion, and liberation through the path of wisdom and ethical living. Yet, the Christian faith introduces a unique and transformative message: the eternal truth is not merely a concept but a person-Jesus Christ.
Jesus not only points to the way; He proclaims, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). In Him, truth is fully revealed, suffering is redemptively addressed, and eternal life is offered through a relationship with the living God. Jesus is not a distant figure but the incarnate Word, the self-revelation of God who enters human history out of divine love and compassion.
This book-Buddhists for Jesus: A Journey to the Eternal Truth-is a respectful and heartfelt invitation to our Buddhist brothers and sisters to consider the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It explores how the person and work of Jesus fulfill the deepest aspirations found in Buddhist thought, while presenting something new and unparalleled: the gift of grace, the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of union with God.
The chapters that follow offer a journey of reflection and dialogue. They begin with the universal human search for truth and explore the nature of God as revealed in the Bible, culminating in the person of Jesus-His compassion, His redemptive suffering, His triumph over death, and His call to new life. Special emphasis is given to themes that may resonate with Buddhist readers, such as liberation from suffering, compassion, wisdom, spiritual transformation, and the communal life of faith. Yet, the path Jesus offers is not one of self-effort alone, but one empowered by divine grace and love.
Whether you are a Buddhist exploring the Christian faith, a seeker of spiritual truth, or simply curious about Jesus, this book invites you to join us on a journey toward eternal truth. That truth is not hidden-it has come to us in the person of Jesus Christ, who lovingly invites all people, saying, "Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest... and you will find rest for your souls" (Matthew 11:28-29).
May this journey lead you not only to understanding but also to encounter-to know Jesus, who is the eternal Truth and the source of life everlasting.
With love and respect,
St. Mark Preaching Ministry