Not-so-gentle Wrist Slap Reconsideration

Last week during Bible study I was not-so-gently reminded that I'm not as awesome as I think.

During our discussion a new member of our group shared an insight that immediately, and internally, prompted a response from me that I'm almost too ashamed to admit: "Well, that was stupid!"


 
Yeah, I know. Real classy.

 In that moment, I got an internal reprimand that still stings.  God gave me the proverbial 'smackdown' of wrist slaps. "How dare you.  He is mine and this is a profound concept for him.  At one point in our relationship it was profound for you, too. How easily you forget."


Oy vey.


The longer I am at seminary, the more I realize how little I actually know.  And it would serve me well to remember this everyday.  Despite how far I go in my studies, it is important for me to remember that my personal relationship with God is the most important thing in my life.  Every book read, every paper written, every exam taken impacts my relationship with my Creator. 

And just because I am learning more about Him in an academic setting doesn't mean that I am better than those who are not.  It just increases the weight of responsibility that is upon me to share this knowledge with others. Lovingly. With respect.

We are called to make disciples. I am not more important than other people because of my education. I, too, was/am ignorant of the things of God. 

"At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone." - Titus 3:3-8

Jesus generously poured out Himself for all of us and He continues to make Himself available to intimately know Him through His Word.  Since my calling was to further my knowledge on an academic level, it is upon me to share that knowledge with whomever is willing to listen - always with humility and respect.

Lesson learned.  And hopefully remembered.