Thoughtful

Just wanted to post a quote from another blog that stuck with me tonight. Its from Shaun Groves' website (his link is on my Life With Boys blog). The first paragraph is an except from a school newspaper where he preformed. The next is his commentary. They both have some thoughtful things to say...

“In academic settings, the temptation is to show your intelligence by dissent. But it may take even more intelligence to know what is worth affirming, to be able to pick out what is good and beautiful in a discourse and approach it with awe. This is the point I am trying to make: As we go into the rest of Spiritual Life Week, as we navigate the tension of an institution both academic and spiritual, do not be overcome with dissension. Let yourself be uncomfortable, sure. Dissect what you hear and cut out what rings false, certainly. But remain open to a Spirit that speaks even through failed metaphors. Welcome awe in the face of truth.” -Thia

Now it’s my turn.
In evangelical Christian circles, the temptation is to demonstrate our love of truth by allowing no dissent. The more popular our blog, our books, our speaking, our music, our church – sadly – the less likely we are to scrutinize our lives and beliefs honestly, to pick out what is good and beautiful in other points of view. This is the point I’m trying to make: As we all go through life, as we navigate the tension between feelings and intellect and faith, we must not become so defensive that we are unable to learn and to love. We must love God with all we are and love our neighbor.
Peace is a choice.
It starts with dialogue. Moves on to common ground. Then affirmation and celebration of what is true and good. Then we listen and learn, knowing that God can speak at anytime through anyone. Peace may not end with much agreement, but with relationship that makes both parties better. -Shaun Groves

http://shaungroves.com/2012/03/cross-shaped-part-7/