Something I have found helpful is to remember that God wants us to be compassionate, kind and loving individuals. There is not a black-and-white distinction between good and bad, contrary to the teachings of Catholicism that many of us grew up with.

Christians should not be tame but good, said Dr. Ralph Wood, professor of theology and literature.

Tuesday at the fourth annual Drumwright Family Lecture, the Alexander reading room was full as faculty, staff and students came to hear Wood speak.

Wood has studied the works and life of C.S. Lewis for a vast majority of his life, and he said he came to the conclusion that Christians are called to be good but not tame through theosis. Theosis is the idea that people are here on this earth to be a part of God’s bigger plan.