Scripture: 1st Corinthians 11:14-15
Does not nature itself teach you that if a man wears long hair, it is degrading to him, but if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For her hair is given to her for a covering.
Thought for the Day: Paul, I’m going to have to say a big NO to what you are suggesting. I don’t believe nature teaches that long hair on men degrades them. It is interesting how Paul uses “the nature” argument often in his writing, and even today, we have a tendency to use it to make a point. The problem lies in that what we often assume to be nature is in fact cultural norms. Throughout human history, our confusion of these two has caused bigotry, hate and even violence. People have said certain people are inferior or incapable or immoral because something goes against nature. Of course, scientists can almost always demonstrate how the thing that has been decreed as unnatural actually occurs in nature more often than one might think. And some of the use of “the nature” argument is outright embarrassing. I was just rewatching the movie Selma and was reminded of how “the nature” argument was used to discriminate, jail and even justify murder. This is not intended to discredit Paul, but we must realize how even Paul was influenced by cultural norms.
Prayer: May I always recognize the capacity of your love, O God, to bridge what culture might have incorrectly taught as immoral, unhealthy or unnatural. Lead me always see through the eyes of love. Amen.
TODAY
Laity Sunday
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