Pebbles and Stones
Dr. L. H. Adolfson, who was at the University of Wisconsin, tells a story that contains excellent guidance for those seeking to grow in the Christian faith.
The story is about three horsemen of ancient times who were riding across the desert. As they crossed the dry bed of a river, out of the darkness a voice called, “Halt!” The riders obeyed. They were told to dismount, pick up a handful of pebbles, put the pebbles in their pockets and remount.
After they had done as they were instructed, the voice said, “You have done as I commanded. Tomorrow at sun-up you will be glad and sorry.” The three horsemen rode away thinking about the strange prediction.
The next morning at sunrise, they reached into their pockets and found that a miracle had happened. Instead of pebbles, they pulled out diamonds, rubies, and other precious stones. Then they saw the truth of the prophecy. They were both glad and sorry - glad they had taken some, and sorry they had not taken more…
For me, that is a real story about education in the life of faith. Some of you know the importance of adult education in the Christian life. And perhaps some of you will stop reading at this point, thinking to yourself, “This isn’t for me.” But I need to remind all of us that worship is not education (at least not explicit, intentional education) - it is the worship and praise of God. Worship is not dialogue with other seekers and it is not a focused time of study. Other occasions are needed for specific learning and growth in our faith journey.
There is an old adage that says, “You get out of it what you put into it.” When it comes to education, that is not exactly true. You don’t get out of it what you put into it or you wouldn’t be learning anything new. But it is true that you won’t gain anything new or grow in your faith if you don’t put something into it. It’s sort of like those pebbles. God transforms our knowledge in and through the mysterious and wonderful life of discipleship. And being a disciple is simply being a follower and a student of Christ.
The season of Lent is a 40 day period leading up to Easter beginning with Ash Wednesday, February 22nd. Michael Moorhead and I will be offering an Adult Education course running the four consecutive Saturday mornings starting on Feb. 25th and continuing through March 18th. The class will meet in the Parlor from 9:00 – 10:00. We will explore four important theological topics that are intimately tied to our lives and the relationship we share in.
“Living Theology: Another Look at Sin, Forgiveness, Grace and Gratitude” is the title of the course offering traditional perspectives along with fresh and helpful ideas. There will be time for interaction, questions and what we hope will be lively discussions providing more depth, value and meaning for the living of our lives.
In the Way of Wonder…Surprise…and Transformation…
Rev. Dr. David D. Young
Senior Minister
This piece originally appeared in The Wave on February 8, 2023.