When ponder the complexities of theology, the ways of God, the interaction of Christianity and culture, the work of the Spirit, and the ways that all of these persons/things impact our reading of scripture, I am often overwhelmed in much the same way as a child who is smacked by a rapid succession of waves. How can we ever begin to talk about studying God, understanding his ways, or even claim to understand ourselves and our own culture. These things are significant and demand our attention, but their complexity also pushes me back to my place.

A Psalm that I read  has been very helpful:

                  O LORD, I am not proud;* I have no haughty looks.
I do not occupy myself with great matters,* or do things that are too hard for me.
But I still my soul and make it quiet, like a child upon its mother’s breast;* my soul
is quieted within me.
               
             
             
               
                  
                  Psalm 131:1-3
                  

Along similar lines I have also found the concepts and illustrations of C. S. Lewis in Mere Christianity to be very helpful. For example, when speaking of the atonement, he says that any explanation or illustration of the atonement must not be confused with the real thing. Just as we can only provide a rough model of atoms in order to get a handle on the complexities of the electrons, neutrons, and protons, so too is every illustration of the atonement. With this in mind, Lewis proceeds to give several illustrations, but asks that the reader only accept them provided that they are helpful in moving toward the greater reality of the atonement. If that is not the case, he advises to simply toss his ideas aside.

Lewis is refreshing in that he does not take his brilliant thoughts so seriously. He sees limits and desires that they prove to be useful. Though serious theological reflection has its place, perhaps it is most often to our advantage to silently curl up next to our God and wait patiently in silence.