Only through challenge can one see the true depth of their beliefs.
(added 12/8/2022)
When we are just skating through life without a care in the world, ignorant of the suffering around us, it is easy to make statements about the morals and beliefs to which we ascribe. However, things may change when push comes to shove, when someone we care about is impacted or judgments are leveled against us.
Time and knowledge are also factors. As we mature and learn, we gain insights regarding the historical nuances surrounding certain strongly held beliefs. We see firsthand the devastating damage wrought by people making blanket statements without adding compassion to the equation. If we open our eyes and hearts, we might see before us an opportunity for growth. The opportunity to add new perspectives and increase our understanding of another person’s experience is ever-present.
If we listen to someone’s point of view without dismissing it, we may learn that what we had thought was cut and dry is not. If we give another the opportunity to speak openly, without allowing our predetermined prejudices to color their words, we may learn that there is more than one way to look at a certain situation, there may be another solution to a problem, and that we aren’t so different after all.
Sometimes, the approach to our belief system itself may need adjustment. If, for example, we use the words of Christ to judge others or Old Testament rules or laws to govern the behavior of others, we may have missed the point entirely. Christ came to free us from the law of sin and death. He helped, served, forgave, and loved those He encountered. The ones He chose to judge were those in leadership positions who were using their power and influence to lift themselves up while pushing others down. Though they can cohabitate, and both are necessary for certain situations, the concepts of liberty and judgment are antithetical in their function.
I have found that there are points in life when I must reevaluate my belief in people, ideas, and even what I thought was concrete. When cracks begin to show, not only do they expose weakness and flaws, but we are also able to see opportunity as new growth sprouts up from within them.
Deconstructing my faith has given me a simple yet greater understanding of what it means to follow Christ. Now, as I rebuild my faith in the love and grace of God seen in Jesus, my own purpose has come into focus. I am called to show grace to others, to help, serve, forgive, and love all those I encounter.
~ elr
Image: ID 41678644 © Michal Bednarek | Dreamstime.com