The observation and question came as a complete surprise. Could the pain of a nerve under pressure be a trigger used to create a spiritual experience?
The person asking the question was sincere. He brought with him foundational experience that suggested that the answer could be yes. He was and is a seeker of God. He believed that the three people in front of him might be able to provide an answer. His own journey told him a pat “no” answer was no more correct than a simple “yes”. He was looking for insight and guidance.
For the majority of his listeners the question was beyond their comfort zone. They had little if any experience, it was not an area of interest or perceived need, and they were not sure what to do in answering the heart.
We come on variations of this situation every day. The easy way out is to make fun of the question. I find myself doing in with simple or obvious questions as well as ones where the answer is complex or unknown. I do not think about it before answering, however, it is almost as if the question needs to pass a threshold test before it qualifies for answering!
I found myself wondering how an almighty, all-powerful, all knowing God views most of my puzzles. Does He think that I am stupid or dumb? Does He assume that I have already forgotten the conversation and lessons of yesterday? Does He believe the answer includes making me feel that someone just put me down?
God’s reaction and response to our questions sets the model for us to follow in our relationship with each other. “An empty-head thinks mischief is fun, but a mindful person relishes wisdom.” (Proverbs 10.23) Every one of our questions is, and will always be, answered with patience, kindness, and love. Sometimes our answer includes the words, “not yet”, however we always have an answer.
Yesterday I was out of my comfort zone. The good news for you and I is that God is always within His.
