“What might happen if we understand the core Christian ethos as creative, constructive, and forward-leaning—as an “organizing religion” that challenges all institutions (including its own) to learn, grow, and mature toward a deepening, enduring vision of reconciliation with God, self, neighbor, enemy, and creation?”
Recently, I have been thinking about the scientific method. We all learned this process so early in life that it permeates so much of our way of thinking and understanding. When I originally learned this methodology in elementary school it was a 5 step process: Question, hypothesis, experimentation, analysis, conclusion. Mostly we all just made volcanos with baking soda and vinegar, but essentially we created a culture of people who think that finding evidence to prove a point is the most objective way to explain what is true. However, we have all learned that what is deemed as scientific or objective, is not that simple. There are very few cases where one’s social location, cultural context, etc… do not play a role in the kind of evidence we collect and how we analyze and draw conclusions. Essentially there is nothing objective or neutral about the scientific method.
Instead of the scientific method approach to faith, I think it is much more life-giving to allow space for confusion and uncertainty. Not knowing, not having a clear and precise answer, this is a gift. When we give space to be surprised and have the answers arise out of the mess we discover and co-create. This has always been a more authentic way for me to learn and grow. When I have already made my conclusions and am merely seeking evidence to prove my hypothesis, I end up being wrong and so far away from God’s will for my life.
If you are engaged in a theology that seeks proof for what you believe or have been told to believe, you might be limiting the divine presence. What might happen to the ways that you live out your faith if you opened you heart and mind to discovery?
Pursuing Call 