I was so sure that I knew exactly what was going on. I understood the scene. I had everything in its place. Nothing could possibly be other than how I had measured it to be. In hindsight I wonder if I had any clue of what I was looking at! Did I actually think I knew the real story? Did I believe I had thought through what my senses were feeding to my mind and heart?
The situation is not a new one. “I looked again. I heard a company of Angels around the Throne, the Animals, and the Elders—ten thousand times ten thousand their number, thousand after thousand after thousand in full song.” (Revelation 5.11)
It is easy to admit that I cannot imagine the scene described by John. It is beyond my imagination. Yet I behave as if I know with absolute certainty everything about God! I act as if I have insider knowledge as to God’s motives, personal characteristics, and ways of thinking. Most of the time my behavior emphasizes my certainty and confidence. I wonder whom I am trying to convince!
The harsh reality is that I often do not understand the people around me. Their behavior is confusing. Their motives are unclear. Their plan of action is a mystery. When I stop to experience him or her as a person it is an amazing experience! Everything is fresh, exciting, and in many ways nurturing.
I have a lot of questions about and for God. I often don’t raise them because I have already concluded I know the answer. I struggle at times with the pain I see and experience in trying to survive life. I would love to engage God in a conversation about this pain and see it from the Divine perspective. Perhaps a fresh look is in order.
The great part about my wonder, uncertainties, and fears is that you and I have a God who welcomes the questions and examination. In fact, our God actually demands that we explore, experience, and ask our questions! Question time.
