Embracing Uncertanity

Perhaps few things are more dangerous than absolute certainty.  It is tempting to believe that one's opinions are perfect and unassailable.

At best, such a stance keeps us from dialogue.  At worst, it creates enemies of people who think differently.  When this absolute certainty about an opinion is coupled with a belief in God, then one feels righteous in the denigration of the other.  

As Christians, we are called to a humility.  We believe God.  Yet that belief is shrouded in mystery. There is so much we don't know, don't understand.

But this goes to the core of our belief.  We don't hold the universe together.  We don't have to make history turn out right.  This is God's job.  We don't have to defend God, nor do we need to be heard.  We don't have to other people or legislate behavior.  Instead, we can love.  We can embrace hope.  We can walk in faith.

The words of Bono have been echoing in my ears lately:  "I can stand up for hope, faith, love/But while I'm getting over certainty/Stop helping God across the road like a little old lady."  

I'm not entirely sure what these words mean.  Nonetheless, I like them.  They speak to me, reminding me that we can live in hope, faith and love without certainty.  Furthermore, God is in control.  He does not need our help.  We can witness without winning.  

More to come . . .

Peace.