Consider The Source
Well, I heard it...she saw...he told me...I read...they said. It reminds me of something I saw on a sign: "The best gossip starts with, 'Psst.' " And way back in the Garden of Eden, Evil whispered, "Psst, Eve. Did God really say...?"(from Genesis 3) And Eve, then Adam bit off more than they bargained for. And so do we, if we take the bait without considering the source or the consequences.
So how do we discern truth from lies? Well, it's not easy, when we're bombarded with words through so many mediums. But it's especially hard when misinformation comes from a friend, family member, or the church. Yes, the church. Again, I suggest Tim Alberta's, The Kingdom, The Power and The Glory.
And then there's the matter of trust. I think of Marilyn McEntyre's book, Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies. Our words matter to and about each other. They build or tear down, bridge or widen the gap, erode or restore trust.
We need wisdom. And so I'm grateful our book group's October choice is the newest book by Dr. Francis Collins, The Road to Wisdom: On Truth, Science, Faith and Trust. Dr Collins writes that we have " four core sources of judgment and clear thinking. They are truth, science, faith and trust."
So, I'm challenged to consider the sources from which I gather news, form opinions, and make choices. What sources feed fear? Which ones encourage hate and distrust? Where can I find wisdom? For me, it helps to turn to the Bible for wisdom, "...Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry."(James 1:19)
Hmm. So, "Psst, have you heard...?" Imagine if our words and actions spread joy, fed hope and restored trust? The book of James nudges us to ask God for wisdom.(James 1:5) And then from James 3:17, we see how this wisdom shows itself. "...It is pure, peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds..."
Well, I was hoping for something less demanding of me and more challenging for the other person. You know, the one with whom I disagree strongly.
You, too?
Then I read these words from French philosopher, Michael de Montaigne,"The most certain sign of wisdom is cheerfulness."
Wow!
That's a lot to consider.
10 Comments
Jan, the four qualities you mentioned are what I feel I receive every time I come to your home here on the Internet. Truth, trust, Wisdom, and cheerfulness. I’m grateful.
Very dear, Maggie, you know well the worth of words. So much power to harm or heal. I'm grateful if you find this blog is like a home, a safe place, where truth, trust ,wisdom and cheerfulness can be found. Often, for me, it comes from you who respond, adding your insights and encouragement. We need each other. Thank you.
I just attended The Trinity Forum's monthly interview with guest Dr. Francis Collins and it was a wonderful hour of listening and learning, where he explores topics from his book. Such a brilliant yet humble man. I so appreciate Cherie Harder's quiet, gentle interview style and the wide-ranging guests they have hosted over the years. If you are interested in seeing him and hear the discussion, you can go and watch for free on their website at www.ttf.org. Just go to their events tab and scroll down to see all the previous interviews. You can also watch when they hosted David Brooks last year when his new book came out, which is now on my night stand. Another gentle soul who is so thoughtful. I also attended the one that had Tim Alberta on there last February. There is no paywall, and they invite attendees from all over the world each time. A visit well worth your time Jan!
Thanks, dear Jeri. Trinity Forum's been a leader for many years in helping us think through issues. I also have David Brooks' book, ready to read, after I return from my visit with family in California. So grateful for men and women of Christian character and intellectual superpowers (or so it seems to me), coupled with humility. Blessings on you and Ron. Maybe I'll see you at Homecoming. I remain hopeful on all fronts.
Thanks Jan. Good theology has daily applications, and this certainly is one of them. We have two ears and one mouth for a reason or several. Many hurts I have received and delivered have come from a mouth too far from the heart. Marty and I plan to attend a presentation by Tim Alberta here at UM tonight and I have read the book you mentioned. Blessings, Dale
Thanks always, Dale, for your encouragement and insights. I saw Tim interviews on Meet the Press, I think. He was thoughtful. I'll be eager to hear your response to his presentation.
Thank you for these thoughts Jan! I love the overall message, and, the final quote - “The most certain sign of wisdom is cheerfulness.”
Well, with all the tough stuff he has had to death with, Francis Collins remains a very cheerful person. And hopeful. He's a true man of deep faith in Jesus and the importance of faith and science working together, not as enemies.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom with each of us. The MM quote was powerful. A posting I will rerun to very soon I am sure.
Peace and thanks to you.
Tina H
What a nice surprise to hear from you, dear Tina. Thank you for taking the time to respond. You encouraged me.