06-25-24

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
June 25, 2024
I really don’t mind people disagreeing with me. In fact, I enjoy a good back and forth, especially when someone brings a good alternative perspective. I might still disagree, but it is good to have substance in the counterargument that pushes and demands something of me. I have walked away saying, “Wow! You’ve given me a lot to think about,” often when someone’s life experiences are very different than my own. But lately, I have been hit with two different argumentative people: 1. The person who has clearly done some random Google searches, cutting and pasting disjointed nonsense in an attempt to disprove my point. When pasting from Google, one might want to modify the font so that it isn’t so apparent. 2. The person who randomly draws a verse from scripture without asking any tough questions about the context of the passage or the historical context in which the author was writing. We can have good discussions rooted in scripture and even disagree. What I find troubling is when a person begins an argument with, “But the Bible says…” as if that is going to make me cower and submit. I find that disrespectful of the Bible itself. Instead, as an example, tell me how you read Luke’s telling of the Jesus story, understanding the unique context of Luke’s Gospel as compared to John’s Gospel. I have a lot to learn, and much of what has challenged my previously held beliefs has come from someone who was truly seeking a conversation, not a confrontation. 

Wherever I am in need of a different perspective or insight, O God of the old and the new, I pray for someone to approach me with grace and humility. In such moments, I pray for your Spirit to provide me with the needed grace and humility to learn what I need to learn. Amen.