"In pursuit of knowledge, every day something is acquired. In the pursuit of wisdom, every day something is dropped."  Lao Tzu

Our church has been engaged for the last year in a process of discernment. The hope of this discernment is that,through collective prayer and conversation, we can come to understand what it is that God is calling us to in this time and in our place in the city. Much good has come of this endeavor. At a meeting last week, a document was presented that in some ways outlined our identity as we see it and as we hope it will evolve. One of the most surprising and I believe powerful statements says "we will gently and fearlessly let go of those ministries which no longer fit us."

Letting go is very difficult work. To do this gently and fearlessly is well, nearly impossible! How can we do it? How will we know if we are "right" about what we choose to not do any longer? These same questions apply to our work as a church community, our work as a nation, our work as individuals. None of this work can be done without very intentional reflection, prayer, trust, support and faith.

It is not a common practice of 21st century people to be reflective. Instead we forge ahead, keep the ball moving,don’t look back. But reflection is imperative to change and growth, to living faithfully, to living creatively. The pursuit of knowledge demands that we keep adding to our life. The pursuit of wisdom demands that we take the time to reflect, pray, trust, and let go of those things which no longer serve us well. It is not either/or, it is both/and. Knowledge and wisdom.

It’s Friday. I hope to take some time this weekend to add knowledge to my life in some way. I also plan to be reflective…..to come to a place of wisdom about what I can gently and fearlessly let go. Join me?