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We are called upon to make decisions every day. Behind the decisions that we make are values. Undergirding those values are belief systems. Martin Luther asked the pointed question “Who are your gods?” He believed that whatever we choose as our god will determine the core of our beliefs. When we attempt to engage in theological thinking, we often encounter hindrances.
- One hindrance is the temptation to jump too quickly to what we think should be done.
- A second hindrance is the temptation to simplify the process by focusing on one issue or topic. The reality is that even within one issue or topic, we will uncover different viewpoints, opinions, and beliefs.
- A third hindrance is caused by our emotions. Emotions of course have a place in theological thinking, but we must recognize that the more emotionally charged the issue, the more difficult to follow the process of theological thinking!
Think of some decisions you have recently made. How did you make those decisions? Did you use a process? Did you think about your core values? Did your decisions reflect your belief system? Did your decisions reflect the God in whom you believe?
This message is excerpted from “Called to deal with difficult issues,” a 2002 resource of the Women of the ELCA. Today we commemorate Matthew, apostle and evangelist.