Man Searching for God on Earth

From the early days of existence, man has searched for the Almighty on earth. Abraham found ancient people worshiping the stars, Moses found the Egyptians worshiping a man. Jesus found men worshiping corrupted laws, Mohammed found men worshiping statues (once again). From the fire worshipers to the Pharaoh, man has sought to bow to that which he has no control over and further what may control him through force. God holds the power over all, and any power under that is lesser (i.e. physical and military strength) or artificial (i.e economical and political ), but yet granted through and by His mercy. We however are creatures of generally shallow and fickle faith by nature. Quick to bow down to immediate weaker powers as in that of magicians, tricksters of the tongue, elemental powers (fire, oceans, etc) and give praise to that which is undeserving of praise.

~"Thou shalt have no other gods before me."
Exodus 20:3

~"There is no other god beside GOD,"
~ q47:19  

Man's longing to find God on earth has led to man falling into the trap of the weak mind where faith is replaced with idols. Whether worshiping a golden calf or the sun, it is a false worship, one that is unforgivable to those who know. Science as I believe it to be is man trying to understand God's work. There are reasons why we see weather patterns and why the sun rises in the east. This does not mean we should bow down to the discovers of these modernly explained occurrences but rather thank God that we have advanced to a stage where we can better understand his workings. During this we must never be arrogant and forget that it is by Allah's (swt) will and design that this happens.

We cannot find God on earth because he is not. He is above us and resides in a place watching over awaiting our faith and devotion. No image, man, symbol or power on earth or beyond is a drop in comparison. Only by submission to the Will of Allah (swt) and the sharing of love through the teachings of the Prophets are we able to really give praise and receive His blessings.

Challenging Adversity from Parents (While Still Respecting Them).

The Prophet Abraham/Ibrahim (saw) defied his father who made idols for a living. The entire society engaged in shirk (idol worship). Abraham went forth to challenge them and emerged a great prophet under the protection of God. Because your parents and forefathers followed a norm without seeking the truth themselves, doesn't mean that you too must follow the same path. Seek knowledge of the Truth, and share it freely. Persecution can be a test from the Almighty and a revelation of the influence Satan and his servants' control. 

(Allah)- "Inna AAibadee laysa laka Aalayhim"-
(God)- "As for My servants, no authority shalt thou have over them"-
~q17:65~

The issue now arises where one may say that Abraham was not honouring his parents , as is the second commandment. Although he is honouring God which is first and foremost in everything and above all the most high authority, he still had not violated the second commandment. When you go against your parent, the first thing to be thrown at you is that they feed you, clothed you and put you through school (by and through the blessings of Allah (swt)). To submit to this and keep quiet would in fact be an injustice to the parents/guardians who took care of you. To correct them in a humble way with knowledge learned and bestow this upon them would be truly thanking them for what they have done for you. 

As much opposition as you may encounter, what must be remembered is that this is all a test. Open yourself to the knowledge of your parents and build on it, then offer back to them as a completed product. Be patient in confrontation of ignorance and make what you give from the heart. Let this be your gift to them in the end as a fitting way to thank them for the foundation that they have set.