#7: Thoughts provoked.
If you would have told me ten years ago, with babies in tow, having just ended my fifteen year career, that the decade ahead would perhaps be the most intellectually stimulating yet, I might have laughed at you. Openly.
Because really, what were the chances of that? I was right there with my little ones waiting for Blue's next clue, hoping I could beat Steve (and later Joe) to the punch of what Blue wanted to do.
Little did I know my forties would be a decade filled with opportunity to study the Bible with other believers, and to be challenged to dig diligently into scripture to deepen and refine my faith. Several years back I wrote a post describing this process this way: "There is this theological side of me that is under construction right now. I am very serious about this transformation, and for the first time in many years I have the time to take stock of how it is going. Are my beliefs well-informed, and have they grown up with me?" It seems more important than ever now, because in just a few years we will launch our children into a world that will demand that their beliefs and their knowledge mesh with one another in an intellectually honest faith. I want to make sure I model a faith that stands under scrutiny.
There are many authors and teachers I have enjoyed over these years, including some excellent teachers in my local church. Getting involved in groups where I have had to come prepared week after week has helped immensely, and is further rewarded by the opportunity to learn from those beside me. I am especially indebted to Beth Moore, whose studies have left me breathless many times as she illuminates the connections between Old and New Testaments and the covenant relationship they represent between God and his people. Sometimes you just don't realize how hungry you are until you sit down at a feast. I am deeply grateful for the sense of having been satisfied, and also the sense that God has much, much more in store for the years ahead.
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2
Because really, what were the chances of that? I was right there with my little ones waiting for Blue's next clue, hoping I could beat Steve (and later Joe) to the punch of what Blue wanted to do.
Little did I know my forties would be a decade filled with opportunity to study the Bible with other believers, and to be challenged to dig diligently into scripture to deepen and refine my faith. Several years back I wrote a post describing this process this way: "There is this theological side of me that is under construction right now. I am very serious about this transformation, and for the first time in many years I have the time to take stock of how it is going. Are my beliefs well-informed, and have they grown up with me?" It seems more important than ever now, because in just a few years we will launch our children into a world that will demand that their beliefs and their knowledge mesh with one another in an intellectually honest faith. I want to make sure I model a faith that stands under scrutiny.
There are many authors and teachers I have enjoyed over these years, including some excellent teachers in my local church. Getting involved in groups where I have had to come prepared week after week has helped immensely, and is further rewarded by the opportunity to learn from those beside me. I am especially indebted to Beth Moore, whose studies have left me breathless many times as she illuminates the connections between Old and New Testaments and the covenant relationship they represent between God and his people. Sometimes you just don't realize how hungry you are until you sit down at a feast. I am deeply grateful for the sense of having been satisfied, and also the sense that God has much, much more in store for the years ahead.
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2
4 comments:
I have loved my thoughts being provoked by yours. Thank you for allowing your (disturbed?) spirit to guide you into such beautiful transformation. You are modeling not only for your children but for the other people, children and adults alike, around you as well. Our church has been so blessed by vicariously witnessing your theological construction in progress!
Aw, that makes my day, Melissa! YOU have sharpened ME--thank you!!
Excellent, Tracy!
Cathy Benton
Thanks, Cathy!
Post a Comment