Called To Wisdom

I have come to appreciate wisdom more and more in the Christian life. Having taught the book of Proverbs as a class, going through it with our “Men of Iron” group, and doing some extra reading and preparation for the Preaching Conference at Lipscomb in October—I have come to appreciate the role of wisdom in my own spiritual growth and development.

This is why I was delighted to read the chapter, “Called to Wisdom” in Ralph W. Beiting’s book, Called to the Mountains. You may remember that I mentioned earlier that I took time during my summer vacation and read this wonderful autobiography. After working with the Christian Appalachian Project and working with poverty over the course of thirty years…listen to Beiting’s definition of “wisdom”:

“…Wisdom is the true goal of education. Wisdom is the ability to make connections between bits of knowledge and place value on different ideas. Wisdom is the ability to have patience and accept the inevitable mistakes, not as failures but as a part of learning. Wisdom is the art of listening to others.” [page 88].

I really appreciate his emphasis on having patience and accepting the inevitable mistakes that come with the life of wisdom. How does one become wise? By being unwise! What a paradox! But, if we ask God to help us to be open to learning from our mistakes, that is how wisdom slowly begins to shape and mold our hearts, attitudes and behaviors. 

I remember with chagrin many of my own unwise choices and mistakes in the past. They are all quite humbling! But if we believe that God calls us to live a life of heavenly wisdom, and to reflect the lifestyle of godly wisdom, then we have to be open to the discipline, learning, and patience that can come our way.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you”(James 1:5).

In Christian love, Curtis

Called to Leadership

 

Probably his chapter on leadership is the most insightful of the book. Ralph W. Beiting, in his autobiography—Called to the Mountains—shares is life’s journey in being a Christian leader in the Appalachian Mountains. I want you to notice the following quote for two reasons: 1) It demonstrates his insightful ability to see things deeply as a leader; and 2) it sets the stage for our upcoming Wednesday evening study in the auditorium.

            “How can we attack the roots of poverty?”

He could see individuals becoming more bitter, resentful, despondent and cynical while living on handouts—whether government, church or personal. The never-ending question was “how can we get more money?” He knew that there had to be a deeper question.  That question challenges us today.

Jesus’ dictum rings loudly in our ears 2, 000 years later: “The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me”(Matthew 26:11). Usually only the first half of this verse gets quoted as an excuse not to get involved in attacking the roots of poverty. But this is Jesus’ response to those who thought the woman anointing Jesus with expensive perfume was wasting it. In essence Jesus was saying you will always have an opportunity to sell expensive perfume and help the poor, but I am not going to be here for much longer. This verse is not a dismissal of the poor, rather a recognition of ongoing care!

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, October 5, 2011. We will embark on a new and challenging study: “What every church member should know about poverty.” This study will position us as a congregation and as individuals to become more intelligible about the systemic issues surrounding poverty. It will introduce us to the different kinds of poverty, along with the causes.

Toward the end of this study we will be offering a unique opportunity. The acclaimed classic “Stone Pillow” movie will be shown on perhaps a Friday night or Saturday night, with discussion groups following. I am thrilled to be working with Dale Dowling on this entire study. His leadership, gifts, training and expertise over the years will bring a unique perspective and voice to this study. As pulpit minister, and on the board of a few community outreach organizations, I will combine my experiences and insights with his.

Prayerfully consider being a part of this new study! Please let me or Dale know if you want a book. We need to order them no later than Monday, Sept 12.

In Christian love, Curtis