On faith
Today, a few verses frame my thoughts on faith:
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” Luke 6:37
Speaking of faith always includes some risk. Any comment draws up images, stereotypes, or personal history. You might already be reacting to whatever you think I’m going to say. Are you rolling your eyes, or leaning in close? Bracing for a sermon? Curious? Relieved? Thrilled? Don’t know yet?
I admit, I’m a bit nervous about including faith as a component of this forum. I could skip the topic altogether. But I’m craving an open, intelligent dialogue on faith issues wrapped up in our roles as women (and a few brave men). I think it all blends together, and can’t be separated from life’s nitty gritty details. And I’m hoping you might like to join me.
I consider myself a moderate, passionate, humbled Christian who has a lot to learn. Depending on the circle, you might think I’m a Bible-thumper, a bleeding heart liberal, or something in between. The truth is, I don’t feel like I fit a religious stereotype, and I’m guessing many of you feel the same. Still, my faith is a filter through which I view things, and it carries great meaning for me.
At the same time, I respect others who view the world through different filters. And I want to learn more. I’ve grown tremendously from others whose faith traditions were far different from mine, and I believe the only way to build community is through sharing and understanding.
I feel compelled to share and learn what has inspired, motivated, and moved people in minor and major ways. For me, faith matters, and you’ll occasionally read my perspective. I’ll also be asking for your input. My hope is that this will be a respectful, welcoming, challenging, and thought-provoking place to discuss such matters.
My mom’s group is reading a great book that models intimate, sometimes messy, interfaith dialogue:
The Faith Club: A Muslim, a Christian, a Jew–Three Women Search for Understanding by Ranya Idliby, Suzanne Oliver, and Priscilla Warner. I’ll post more about this soon. Pick it up and we can journey together.
What about you? What is your perspective on faith? Want to join in the conversation?
[...] I’m Pam, and I’m so glad you’re here. This site is my way to reflect on family, faith, and the flux of life and learn others’ perspectives too. Feel free to click around, and if you’re [...]
Thanks so much for partcipating in my carnival. I have this book on my list to read. I love the idea of the share of faith and beliefs and finding common ground despite our differences. I hope you’ll be back next week!
Jennifer Schmerer’s last blog post..I Believe Thursday
Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Pam, I’m glad you included faith in your blog.
Mike in Tucson
Mike in Tucson’s last blog post..Living In The Desert Is Cool. I’m Cereus!
Today, taking into consideration the fast life style that everyone is having, credit cards have a big demand in the economy. Persons from every arena are using credit card and people who are not using the credit cards have made arrangements to apply for 1. Thanks for sharing your ideas about credit cards.