Passion. Ability. Reality. Joy.

I’ve had the privilege, as I’m sure many have, over the years to walk beside some wise people. Some of those, granted, were “wise beyond their years”, others who believe they are wise when their actions speak otherwise. Some who wouldn’t consider themselves wise but combine their knowledge and discernment (how’s that Cork?) to provide wise counsel. And then some who are just plain “wise asses”. Each have their place in our society, and I’m convinced none are in danger of extinction.

So when it comes to matters of personal faith, I think a similar taxonomy of individuals exist. There are those who accept faith right out of the gate and are able to walk in it without hiccup or doubt consistently, much to the surprise and chagrin of their elders. There are others who claim a personal faith connection, but then you see their actions and you not only question their own personal faith, but based on the volume of their megaphone, may even doubt the whole concept of faith, seen through the lens of this person’s life.

Then there are others who want to believe but can’t. At least not yet. But they haven’t shut down the possibility of something greater than themselves, and the need to have a connection – no, a relationship – with that thing or being. They are just on the journey trying to live their lives in a way that honors those around them while they continually search for that higher meaning and purpose in their life. They haven’t rejected faith and belief, but they want and need something deeper than just an emotional experience, and so their search continues.

I really respect those that are in that last category, those who are not willing to just accept faith on someone else’s prompting, but is willing to do the research – both faith-based and secular – to come to their point of acceptance. Of course, it does indeed require an openness to actually “reading” and “discovering” in order to discern truth, but those that are truly up to the challenge, I firmly believe that God meets them there. And then blows them away with His message of hope, love, and grace.

In our kids’ program at church this past Sunday, our bottom line was “If you want to know about God, read His book!”. If you’re on the journey to find if God is real, may I suggest the same?

Peace.