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| Wisdom at God's Pace"Wisdom comes most easily to those who have the courage to embrace life without judgment and are willing not to know, sometimes for a long time." - Rachel Remen Dear Friends: I feel pretty aware of my ignorance these days. Of course, I have teenage daughters to help me appreciate how much I don't know, so maybe that's my problem. But somehow, I have the sense that the world is spinning faster and faster and I understand it less and less. Not knowing why other people do what they do, or what I should do, can be pretty frustrating. It can even be frightening. So I'm pondering Rachel Remen's words (above) and thinking about what gift might be hidden in "not knowing." Recently, I visited with Bill and Jean M. about how long the church has wanted to expand its parking lot, but not known how to get it done (i.e., how to afford it). I've also had occasion to be dismayed by how many years we have not known how to feasibly gain wheelchair access to the front platform in the sanctuary and we still don't know. I don't know whether people I care about will change, and if so, in what direction. I don't know what the future holds. "Not knowing" is not comfortable. But can I accept it? Can I learn and grow from "not knowing"? Might I gain wisdom in this way? According to the book of Proverbs, Wisdom cries out in the street; in the square she raises her voice. At the busiest corner she cries out; at the entrance of the city gate she speaks. "How long, o simple ones, she asks, will you love being simple?" Does wisdom require that I let go of my need to know the right answers right away, and instead embrace patience as I continue to listen for God's voice? Or does wisdom compel me to feel urgent about knowing, listening, deciding, and understanding? How long is too long to wait and wonder? When does the moment come in which action is necessary? You see how overwhelmed with questions I have become! Proverbs also says that "awe and respect of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." In these times, I cling to my belief that God is "out there" and "in here" and all around us. I hope and long to respect God always and everywhere. If that is not enough, may it at least be a beginning. Joined with you in faith, Pastor April |
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