Dreaming- Kristen

We had dinner with friends the other night. We got into some interesting theological discussions and realized we have some pretty different opinions on several issues, namely those regarding women in ministry.  It was a good talk- they are the kind of people I enjoy disagreeing with- calm, rational, polite. But at one point, one of the friends made the comment, “Of course I think I’m right. I believe what I believe because I think it’s correct. Everyone thinks their own opinion is right, or they would not believe it.”

Well, that’s certainly true up to a point. But much can be said for the way you hold those “right” beliefs. Much can be learned from the way we talk about and act on our beliefs.

I hold many of my beliefs loosely. I used to be so steadfast and certain about what I believed. Now, when I think back on the arrogant way I assumed I had it all figured out, it makes me blush.  I guess that makes me a little more humble lately. Most of the time, it makes me want to listen to people really carefully, listen more than I talk, and ask more questions than I make dogmatic assertions.

Even as I hold my opinions that I believe are “right”, I still know that I have so much to learn. I hold my opinions lightly, knowing that I may change my mind a few years down the road.

I think it’s more important to treat people with love than it is to hold the right answers. I do know that I will always try to fall on the side of mercy and grace rather than judgment. I hope God will too, for my own sake at the very least.

I do know that I cling pretty tightly to the belief that I am equal in the eyes of God to a man. No matter who She made first. No matter whose fault you think the whole apple thing was. I was created to think, and dialogue, and create, to learn and love and forgive. Men who want to rule or lead without the input and partnership of women can do so, but I think they are going to miss some of who God is. But I’m a crazy egalitarian who believes in community.

You may say that I’m a dreamer…but I’m not the only one…

Comments

[jim]

"I think it’s more important to treat people with love than it is to hold the right answers. I do know that I will always try to fall on the side of mercy and grace rather than judgment. I hope God will too, for my own sake at the very least."

--You're right. You're not the only one.

[Adam]

Your starting to sound like Jesus more and more. That's why I come to your website.

Also, as far as holding beliefs loosely, you should read W.V Quine. You may have heard of him but he has some great philosophical work on "belief webs" that is held in high regard in many philosophical circles. Warning: Real Philosophy is freaking hard to read. But you two are the last people in the world I would expect to be afraid of that.

[Streak]

Kristen, great thoughts. Reminds me of how I see historical scholarship. Yeah, I believe the interpretation I present, but I also understand that it is not Truth, and is open to reinterpretation and new evidence.