Scripture: Isaiah 59:14
Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands at a distance; for truth stumbles in the public square, and uprightness cannot enter.
Thought for the Day: In celebration of Banned Book Week (a week in which we remember the troubling moments of history when books were banned), Bill Moyer wrote an article entitled The Bane of Banned Books. Mr. Moyer reminds us of a few of the books that groups have attempted to ban in recent history, including: The Color Purple, To Kill A Mockingbird, Catcher in the Rye and Of Mice and Men. From our current perspective, we only shake our heads at the close-mindedness of some people, yet censorship sneaks into the public tent through even the smallest gap created by short-sided fear. Moyer goes on to write, “Censorship is the enemy of truth – even more than a lie. A lie can be exposed; censorship can prevent us knowing the difference.” A free exchange of ideas, even when it includes what some may describe as offensive or blasphemous, only moves us toward a greater understanding of truth. Some may have convinced themselves that protecting truth is the only way to keep it safe, but truth will only reveal itself and flourish when its security is secondary to freedom.
Prayer: Holy God, as the wise have recognized throughout history, your ways are truth freely discovered and freely embraced. Amen.
4 thoughts on “Ecclesiological Etchings: 10-03-12”
Bruce,
I liked the quote from Bill Moyer and agree with you about the free exchange of ideas helping to reveal the truth and expose lies. Jesus said, “You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” Perhaps it is impossible for one to exist without the other. Truth and freedom are like two sides of the same coin, inseparable. Enjoy your day.
Peg
Amen, Peggy! What we often forget is that freedom assumes risk and vulnerability. Too often people want the freedom, but they don’t want to take the risk of having someone say something that might be offensive. Can’t have it both ways…
Thanks for your continuing inspiration, Bruce. I think of you today and the next few days as the DPF Executive Committee meets in St. Louis. “Wish you were there!” Jon
Many wonderful thoughts for my friends in DPF! What an amazing witness. Give my greetings to those folks! Bruce