Subjective Objectivity?

The disintegration that follows adherents of subjective reasoning alone has led more than one searcher to abandon the journey, because he thinks there is no destination.

Subjective reasoning is when a person formulates philosophy or theology based on personal preferences. This line of thinking is reflective of "if-it-makes-me-feel-good-then-it-is-good-philosophy." According to this line of reasoning, truth is what we prefer it to be. Truth is a creation of our desires, wishes and personalities. As such, truth evolves depending on our own personal experience.

Objective reasoning is when a person seeks to forumate philosophy or theology based on an already-established standard. This person does not claim to have the truth in its totality, nor to reinvent the truth. Instead, this person recognizes that in arriving at truth we embark and continue on a journey. The journey is a lifelong process. The inability to completely grasp the truth does not deter the searcher from his journey. His quest is as important as his destination, but he realizes there is an objective truth that is not determined by personal fancies.

In religious circles, it appears that the subjective reasoning group is increasing, while the objective-reasoning group is shrinking. Both groups view each other with suspicious eyes. Of course, for the subjective group, suspicion varies from day-to-day based on emotions.

For the objective group, emotions are not a sure guide to finding truth. For these people, truth is truth whether or not it makes me feel good or happy.

Which one will lead us closer to the truth -- subjective reasoning or objective reasoning?

Journey on, friends.

The truth is still out there.

Birds of Prey

Thoughts without direction become bird of prey that attack the heart and confuse the mind.

There are nights when my thoughts run wild. Sleep is impossible with so many thoughts running at such high rates of speed. It is like a whirlwind in the mind. At such moments, I an unable to concentrate despite my best efforts. Sometimes I simply lie awake in bed. Other times I try to read or watch TV. Then there are times when I write. This is a somewhat dangerous option since I do not know how my thoughts will be interpreted.

Part of the sleeplessness comes from the unwillingness to recognize that even though I cannot control everything, that is not a bad thing. Intellectually, I know that I cannot control everything. Emotionally, I wish I could.

My heart often wages war with my mind. Have you ever developed strong feelings about a person and/or a situation only to have your mind rebuke such feelings? Or on the flip side, have you ever analyzed a situation or a relationship with a person only to have your heart rebuff you?

In many ways we are simple creatures. However, our simplicity basks in complexity. Intellectual achievement still leaves much to be desired. Emotional maturity is marked not by our crafty words or attempts at displaying the right image, but by serenity.

With the tension between mind and heart brewing at a steady rate within us, it becomes harder to trust ourselves. Am I doing the right thing? Should I really walk down this path?

We then become subject to doubts. What if no one supports me? What if those closest to me do not agree with my assertions? These self-doubts speak to our pride and lead us to irrational conclusions.

Listen to your heart (a current song remake on the radio) is good advice if your heart is stable and pure. An instable and impure heart breeds emotional heartache and sinister motivations.

The better advice is to reconcile heart and mind. Of course, that requires a commitment to a process that many find intimidating or simply not worth the struggle. Yet, it is only through this process that we move from merely existing to living a life above the clouds.

The other option is to surrender to the birds of prey.

Faces on the Journey

Today I stand in the shadows and look out on the world around me.

There are so many faces marked by so many life-travels.

Among the myriad faces are those stained by the journey. Some have since abandoned the journey. Others carry on, knowing in their hearts that there is a way out there to erase the stain.

There are those who have lost the ability to differentiate between dark and light. These are people who no longer have an interest in the journey. They have traded traveling for settling. These are the ones who decided to pitch their tents even though they know in their hearts they are still far away from the Promised Land.

And then there are the people who still believe in the face of unbelief. These are the people who move mountains and stare doubt in the face unabated by any threat that fear could make. They are rocks in a world of sand. They are the ones who will not bend or break. Though the journey takes its toll on them, they embrace the journey knowing that it is as important as the destination.

So where are you? Have you lost the ability to differentiate between dark and light? Have you abandoned the journey, settling for where you are at this moment? Or are you one of the true believers? Are you one of the ones who shines even when standing in the shadows? Do you embrace the journey, knowing full well that the journey and the destination both matter?

"Carry on, my wayward son. There'll be peace when you are done. Lay your weary head to rest. Don't you cry no more." (with apologies to Kansas).

Imperfect Perfection

Thought: "The widespread idea that people should make self-improvement a primary goal in their lives is problematic because it assumes that people are intrinsically deficient."

There are more noble goals than self-improvement. The thought above is weakened by the assertion that self-improvement is a worthy goal for people to pursue. Furthermore, it is weakened by the assumption that self-improvement is even possible.

If there is something deficient in our nature, then it follows that the deficient cannot make himself sufficient. If we are not deficient, then there is no need for any type of improvement, let alone self-improvement and such a question is irrelevant.

However, if there is a deficiency lurking inside each one of us, then we who are lacking cannot magically transform ourselves into complete individuals.

To truly replace a deficiency, there must be some kind of outside assistance. There must be something into which we can tap and find the resources necessary to becoming complete people.

When an athlete tears his ACL, there is no chance that another ACL will grow in its place. Self-healing is out of the question. Something must be put in the place of the torn ACL. That something could be taken from another part of the body or from someone else's body. Either way, outside assistance is needed to perform such a procedure.

If my spirit (inner person) is deficient then no amount of self-help or wishful thinking will transform me into a perfect being. No matter how much good I do, my mistakes are not erased -- unless, I satisfy the penalty that my mistakes make. But it goes even deeper than this. I can pay the penalty for my mistakes, but I will commit more mistakes, thus incurring more penalties. Such an existence is not attractive -- unless, someone or something else pays the penalty for me, declares me innocent and frees me from the power and penalty of my failure.

The imperfect can never achieve perfection.

"Meism"

Considering the rise of "meism" in Christian circles, it is fitting to consider this "ism" as an affront to the spirit of Christ.

Picture this scenario: a congregational decision is made that upsets some of the long-time, most generous members. Their response is to launch an offensive. Now, mind you, this offensive is not based on Scriptural grounds (e.g. exposing a violation of Scripture). Rather, the offensive is couched in what amounts to be childlike selfishness.

So they attack the decision and the people who have made such a decision. They question motives and in the process of voicing their displeasure they run down anyone whom they suspect might not agree with them. Next, a massive recruiting plan is launched to sway people to their viewpoint (and not to what the Bible teaches).

Those who made the decision meet with the disgruntled people, listen to their complaints, and give them time to explain why they are so upset. They then reaffirm that the decision (reached by prayer and the overall mission given to Christ-followers) stands.

Instead of putting the needs of the congregation before their own needs, they continue to spew forth divisive rhetoric to anyone who will listen.

The result is that people begin to take sides based on misinformation and a wedge begins to form among the Christ-followers of this particular congregation. Those who disagree assert their positions in the church while ignoring the central position of Christ.

What should be done when such a thing happens among Christ-followers? What is the appropriate action? What would you do?

It seems that when "meism" surfaces in the church, there is little room left for "Christ"-ianity.

It Takes Two

Today was an exercise in humility. I decided to brush up on some of my ancient algebra skills and ended up stressed out and frustrated. My wife came along and solved every problem with ease. Thankfully, algebra was not a required course in seminary.

Seriously, though, there are times in our lives when we seem to have everything under control. There are times when we feel (almost literally) that we can walk on water. Then the waves come crashing in, we lose our focus, and our inability is revealed to us in HDTV.

Today I was reminded of my ineptitude when it comes to any form of math (my wife -- before she was my wife -- tutored me in college). I guess you could say I was "hot for teacher" (or "tutor"). Anyway, Mendy helped me through college algebra so the least I could do to thank her was to marry her! :)

When it comes to tackling life, make sure you have a partner. There are bigger things out there than daunting algebra problems. Standing alone might make a good title for Godsmack, but it is really not the best way to progress through life (even the Scorpion King had help).

Two are better than one. If one falls down, the other can pick him up. That saying is not an original -- it first made its appearance in the Bible.

Full Disclosure

Confusing thoughts and complicating situations go together. We wrestle with determining the truth by reconciling all viewpoints. Although sometimes in the search for truth all viewpoints cannot be reconciled.

We seek to find answers using the elements of basic problem-solving and the tenets of rationalism. However, some answers are not rational and sometimes our problem-solving skills fall short.

Just when we think we have things figured out, something new happens. Fresh information hits the scene, another viewpoint is expressed, and a host of questions are born out of the desire to reach the end of the particular journey.

So, "walk on" as Bono is fond of singing, because it is (to quote Bono again) "a beautiful day."

Government may deny knowledge, but God opts for full disclosure. We know our search for God is not in vain, because God does not keep Himself hidden. When we cannot see Him or find Him it is a reflection of our own failure. This truth is self-evident: the Creator interacts with His creation. While such truth is self-evident it is not rational. But then again, is unconditional love always rational?

Search for the answers, brush up on your problem-solving skills, and rest easy. God is not going anywhere. Open the eyes of your heart, listen to the deepest recesses of your spirit. Take a ride with your imagination. And breathe (with apologies to Anna Nalick) in the sweet air that comes from a discoverable God and His amazing grace.

Separate Ways

Reaching a conclusion is a dangerous proposition. Objectivity is so hard to come by. We claim neutrality, but our upbringing, our likes and dislikes, and our personalities play such important roles in each decision we mull over.

What are the options for someone who has investigated the matter at hand and reached a conclusion that is either ignored or ill-received by others? What happens when a Christ-follower reaches a decision about another Christ-follower that is disregarded by others?

This is tricky business. Calling someone "something" is not necessarily the same as proving that someone is "something." For example, a person can witness certain events, hear spoken words and reach a conclusion about a situation and/or person. Sometimes the conclusion reached necessitates a parting of the ways, especially when the matter involves a person's convictions.

What made the conflict so severe that sent Paul and Barnabas separate ways?

On one hand, there are some Christians that believe if we just love each other more then no conflict is insurmountable. The result of this thinking is that we never really address conflict. We simply spray Febreze on the pet stain to cover the odor (while the carpet stain remains). Or we might hang a painting over the hole in the wall. The hole is never fixed, but we have hidden it from view (out of sight, out of mind).

When we do such things we show that we do not understand the nature of conflict and how to deal with it in a healthy manner. Reconciliation does not always we continue the status quo. We placate the passive-aggressive tendencies of those around us and enable harmful behavior to continue. This is not how Christ-followers should deal with such matters.

Paul and Barnabas went separate ways (see the Book of Acts, New Testament). They agreed to disagree. They reached an impasse and there is nothing wrong with that! They both went on their ways fulfilling their divine callings. I doubt that either one gossiped about the other, rather, I think they prayed for each other and hoped the best for one another.

Sometimes we must go separate ways. We do not always see eye-to-eye. What some people consider dangerous, others do not take a second-glance at. What is viewed as detrimental to some is seen as harmless to others. And the conclusions I make about someone or something may be very different than your conclusions.

The answer is NOT to ignore the elephant in the living room. Elephants in living rooms tend to cause much damage. The greater danger is when we act like there is no elephant. Elephants must be dealt with, and in dealing with them sometimes we reach an impasse.

Sometimes we must go separate ways. Even in the Church.

Miscellaneous Insights

Now that the visits with family and friends have concluded, the Brewsters are left to stare at each other and think of profound things to say. Unfortunately, there is not much conversation at this time.

We have reached the hills of Tennessee and already long for the Bluegrass State, the Buckeye State, the Keystone State, and even Wild and Wonderful West Virginia.

Yet, we are on a journey back to the place where we have currently "pitched our tent." For the past two weeks, we have been guests in the homes of others (even though they are family). Each one of us is looking forward to sleeping in his/her own bed!

This weekend means a return to work! Having a job is a good thing! My children don't have to live on Ramen Noodles!

Anyway, I hope your walk through life is progressing (even at a slow rate). And I pray that your search (i.e. journey) is revealing not just information about your identity, but about your Creator.

Knowing That I Don't Know

Searching for direction in life is a consuming task for some people and an afterthought for others. Some people are assured of who they are and what they are to do with their lives. Others are assured of who they are and not sure what they are to do with their lives. Then there are others who are not assured of who they are and of what they are to do with their lives.

For those of us who know what we are supposed to do with our lives the question becomes, "how do you know?" My response at times is to say (in honor of Socrates), "the only I know is that I do not know." I realize that may ruffle some feathers of Christians who believe in the certainty of faith (though that is not my point).

Christ-followers are given their identity by and in Christ. They know who they are. But, does that mean they know for sure what they are to do with their lives? Okay, the Good Book says we are to live our lives for the glory of God ("Let your light shine so that others may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven"). However, this is not the question up for discussion. The question is "how" do we (from a vocation sense) live our lives for God's glory. Is everyone supposed to quit their jobs and become full-time, paid clergy? That does not seem reasonable or wise.

So, how do I find direction in life while seeking to fulfill my ultimate purpose? It seems the first step involves a self-assessment (that does not sound entirely pleasant). The next step is to evaluate my talents, abilities, and training with the purpose that each Christ-follower has. Then, it seems I am better able to make a decision.

That all sounds good, but it leaves a lot of leaves unturned. How do you know (based on your God-given identity and purpose) that you are doing what you are supposed to do with your life?

Interpreting Belief

What is the difference between belief and interpretation? How do my beliefs affect the way I interpret someone else's writing or should my beliefs even have an effect on interpretation?

Whenever we approach a document and seek to interpret its contents the first thing we need to do is to interpret the document in light of the author's convictions rather than ours. This helps in understanding the motives behind the writing as well as the intention of the document.

When I am able to find out what an author believes, then I can compare her beliefs with mine and make a decision as to whether or not I believe what I have just read.

If I interpret a document based on my beliefs then I have not allowed the author to speak and have ignored the convictions of the author.

Confusing belief and interpretation leads to a host of problems, especially when the subject matter is religion. If I approach the Bible and seek to interpret it through my already-established beliefs, then I am ignoring the convictions behind the words. This leads us to pulling from the sacred Scriptures those statements with which we agree and explaining away the verses with which we do not agree.

In order to understand a text, whether it be biblical or not, I must allow the author to speak for herself and base my interpretations on the author's convictions. When I have done this, I can then formulate an opinion.

I am not sure if we have done a good job of this in the churches of Christ. It seems that we establish our beliefs and bring them with us to the interpretation table. We then bend Scripture to match our beliefs (proof-texting) and ignore the original intention and conviction behind the words.

Does this seem healthy or unhealthy?

Coal Miner Genes

Yesterday was a good day. We left the farm and traveled throughout eastern Kentucky. We had one stop in mind: Harlan. There is not much to see in this coal-mining town, but the one thing we wanted to see is located in downtown Harlan.

We did not have specific directions, which was okay because Harlan is not a very big place. We made a few turns before reaching the object of our journey. There it stood, a beautiful memorial in honor of all the coal miners who sacrificed their lives for their families and their country.

The memorial was engraved with hundreds upon hundreds of names of men who were killed while working in the mines. I did not recognize most of the names, but knew that each name represented a person who was special to others.

I stood at the memorial and scrolled my finger down to "1928." The coal miners were grouped by years and this was the one for which I was looking. There was the name a few lines down: Benjamin F. Adkins. My finger twitched as I reached the name and shivers went up and down my spine. You see, Ben Adkins was my great-grandfather.

At the time he went to work in the mines things were tough for farmers (as they usually are). He was trying to support his family (wife and three children). What we envisoned as a second job became the death of him. He was killed in the mine.

His death was a tragedy. He left behind a loving wife and three children (one of whom became my grandfather). He also left behind a the church family that knew firsthand of his faith in God and dedication to living the Christian life.

My grandfather carried his name (J.B. -- "B" for Benjamin). My grandfather passed away last year, so now I carry his name. And the more I find out about my great-grandfather, the prouder I am to wear his name.

Having "coal miner genes" is a good thing. Coal miners go into places where most people will not. They are hardworking individuals. And a good number of them pay the ultimate price. However, their deaths do not negate the legacy they leave behind.

Believe me -- I'm living proof.

Freedom in America

Happy 4th of July!

Regardless of what you think about the United States government, the rampant political corruption, and even the obvious immorality that runs amok, there are good things about America.

Without getting getting involved in a historical debate over the founding fathers' religious views or motivations, one thing is clear: they were men of vision. And, yes, people of vision are people with convictions.

We live in a country that often uses religious "double-speak," yet we are free to worship and to express ourselves religiously (despite the anti-American claims of the ACLU).

America is a wonderful place to live! I am proud to say that I am an American. However, I have been given a freedom that far eclipses the freedom I enjoy as an American. My faith gives me freedom, because of the object of my faith: Jesus.

Let freedom ring ... thank God for answering my greatest need. What we all really need is a Savior. Only the God of the Bible offers us one. Remember that when you set off fireworks this fourth of July!

Farm Theology

A little fishing was in order after a day of mowing, weed-eating, and clearing brush. My son beat the rest of us by catching three bass. My Dad caught one and I caught one. Guess experience does not necessarily identify who will catch the most fish.

Life on the farm moves at a slower pace. There are no traffic jams. Cell phones do not work out here (unless you walk to the top of the mountain). And most people out here have not heard of a pager (and when you tell them what it is they think the idea if pretty dumb).

The farm definitely lowers blood pressure levels and reduces stress. There is a therapeutic quality that comes from being out in the country. Today my daughter and I drove to town. The hustle and bustle made us hurry even faster back to the farm.

Here a person can sit and watch the deer run across the field. Take time out to do a little fishing. Spot a wild turkey and even see coyotes roaming across the hills. Today my kids saw their first snake up close and "in the wild." They were not all that impressed.

What impresses me is God's creation. This environment makes it easier to gain perspective. A person can think more clearly out here. Problems do not seem quite as big. Life does not appear to be as complicated. As my son said today, "This is awesome!"

As I read my Bible today, I was reminded of how God reveals Himself through His creation. I believe it because I have seen creation witness boldly and beautifully to God's existence. After all, as someone has said, "Creation is God's first missionary."

It is beautiful out here on the farm. I think God must live in Kentucky.

Travel Lessons

The fireworks season is upon us! For those of us who live in Louisiana this means several nights of lying awake and listening to exploding bottle rockets and other assorted firecrackers/fireworks.

In most states, fireworks are prohibited in urban areas. However, in Louisiana anyone can shoot off fireworks in any neighborhood. This is part of the Southern culture. It drives my dog crazy. He will run around the yard barking at every loud sound and chasing every colorful light that adorns the night sky.

At the Brewster homestead, we enjoy watching fireworks. We used to travel to the family farm and have our own personal fireworks show. We are re-instituting that tradition again this year. It is good to rekindle good memories.

To get to the farm, though, meant some traveling, which is always interesting with two children.

"Are we there, yet?"

"No."

"Are we close?"

"No."

"Why not?"

"Kids, we will get there when we get there."

"But why do we have to go through so many states?"

"Because ... because ... it's your Mom's fault."

Whack. The car suddenly swerves as the driver struggles to keep consciousness. Upon returning to his senses he realizes that crossing his wife is neither good nor safe.

The adventures lived while traveling teaches us several lessons. What are some of the lessons you have learned from traveling the open road (or the friendly skies)?

One thing I have learned is that reaching you destination makes the trip worthwhile. Reaching your destination can be frustrating (traffic jams, road construction, etc.). It can put a strain on your mental awareness, emotional stability, and overall attitude. Yet, when the destination is reached, the trip (in hindsight) does not seem so bad. I think this is how we will feel when we reach heaven. Our trip there is filled with the unexpected. There are moments of grief and suffering. There are times of despair and heartache. The journey is not always fun. Yet, reaching the destination makes the journey worth every step.