Systematic
For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. ⏤ 1 Corinthians 13:12
So many systematic theologies. All claim to be Bible-based, but they are very different, even divergent. Why? Maybe because systems aren't God's aim? God wants to be known, face to face – just as he knows us. He wants us to apprehend Love and give love, first to him, and to our neighbor. He wants us to trust him and to be trustworthy.
Long Division
I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. ⏤ Romans 16:17
Doing calculations is hard—especially division. Keeping track of who I should love and who I can dismiss is too tiring. When Jesus was asked, "Who is my neighbor?" he told a story about a priest, a Levite, and a Samaritan. No points were awarded to the priest and Levite for working the wrong problems.
Puddling Up
Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. — Revelation 22:1-2
As some lose vision of our Christ and his kingdom, this beautiful river may become ponds, then puddles. Not forever.
- love
- Holy Spirit
- humility
- church
- politics & society
- mission & witness
- holiness
- parable & metaphor
- identity
- eternal life
- doubt & deconstruction
- leadership
- grace
- justice
- scripture
- spiritual life
- advent & christmas
- poverty & compassion
- imagination & creativity
- technology & ai
- knowing God
- human dignity
- faith & trust
- incarnation & cross
- kingdom of God
- community
- reconciliation
- spiritual formation
- epistemology
- prayer
- gratitude
- culture
- creation & nature
- discipleship
I practice the spiritual discipline of rescuing earthworms on paved surfaces. It's a reminder to me that I can pause what I'm doing, get a little dirty, and help. Also, that I've been given the responsibility to care.