No need to be “right”
When we read, we interpret words based on what we know of the context. While we would read historical narratives literally, trusting (but checking if need be) the dates and other facts found therein, we wouldn’t interpret a book of fairy tales similarly. So, which is the Bible? Historical narrative or fairy tale? It certainly isn’t fairy tale, but it does have allegory!
Here is one area of HUGE debate and disagreement: the world is how old? Those who take the Bible literally say the world is about 6,000 years old. Those who give credence to the discoveries of science — discoveries that reveal a complex universe — believe the world is billions of years old. Because this same science gives us facts upon which we depend for air and underwater travel, for example, many people seek ways to understand what the Bible says (thus, respecting it as a major voice) while also respecting what an intelligent reading of the natural world, a world which God brought into being, tells us. This is why many have come to see no conflict between science and faith, in that they understand the purpose of the Bible is to let us know the world came about through God’s word and action. It is God’s. How old it is is irrelevant, as far as the life of faith is concerned.
What does this understanding have to do with our focus here on the sacred ground of suffering? I have seen a literal interpretation of the Bible used as a whip far too often, putting people in their place, condemning, separating, casting off. Philippians 2:12 tells us to approach our salvation “with fear and trembling.” Now, this can and should be taken both literally and metaphorically! We don’t come to the Bible flippantly. We don’t come to it to condemn our neighbor or put ourselves in the right. And, we don’t come to it without our own baggage — our scars, predispositions, history, and prejudices.
Approach the Bible with reverence. Expect to find and hear God within its pages. Be patient. Be persistent. Be open.
Reflection
Ponder the purpose of the Bible as you spend time with verses like these: Deuteronomy 30:19; Joshua 1:9; Psalm 18:10; Psalm 25:1; Psalm 27:3; Jeremiah 29:11; Mark 5:36; Luke 7:23; John 6:35; Romans 8:28
Prayer
Dear God, help me to rest in You. Help me to let go of all the arguments, the questions about which Bible, whose interpretation, what church. Help me to just come before you and set down all my wounds, my anger, my fear. Let me open a Bible and while being still (Psalm 46:10), may I look up each of the verses above and immerse myself in their meaning. May I know I am in your presence, wholly accepted, wholly loved, with no need to be “right.” May I just be, with you. Amen.
