The Watchtower's False Hope

Paradise will probably be a recurring topic on my blog. Growing up in this religion, Paradise was always talked about as a future garden-like Earth. Almost every JW alive envisions this to be the case. But how presumptuous of us, especially the people who taught us this. The October 1, 2006 Watchtower Magazine even goes so far as to liken Paradise to their illustrations in their literature:

9) Our God-given hope is infinitely superior to anything that the world can offer. Says Psalm 37:34: "Hope in Jehovah and keep his way, and he will exalt you to take possession of the earth. When the wicked ones are cut off, you will see it." Yes, we have every reason to "rejoice in the hope." (Romans 12:12) In order to do so, however, we must keep our hope fresh in mind. Do you regularly reflect on your God-given hope? Can you see yourself in Paradise, glowing with good health, free from anxieties, surrounded by people you love, and sharing in truly fulfilling work?Do you meditate on the Paradise scenes depicted in our publications? Such regular reflection might be likened to cleaning a window that affords a magnificent view. If we neglect to clean the glass, soon dirt and grime will rob us of the scene's clarity and appeal. Other things may then capture our attention. May we never allow that to happen!

How obnoxious of them to portray Paradise like their publications do. One has to take a look and see what their expectations are: A picnic with flowers, fruits, and a zoo perhaps? How limited is their hope, I can now see how materialistic they are. Have they forgotten:

1 Corinthians 2:9 However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him"

Besides, Paradise is not an Earthly domain, but heavenly!

2 Corinthians 12:1 I must go on boasting. Although there is nothing to be gained, I will go on to visions and revelations from the Lord. 2I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether it was in the body or out of the body I do not know God knows. 3And I know that this man—whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, but God knows— 4was caught up to paradise. He heard inexpressible things, things that man is not permitted to tell.