Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were uneducated and ordinary men, they were amazed and recognized them as companions of Jesus.”
NL Daily Devotion for Thursday, June 9, 2022
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
I love that they flat out name that Peter and John are “uneducated and ordinary.” As a highly educated person I can be a real snob about my religion (not my faith, mind you, but the socially-constructed ritual practices and theology that characterizes my particular way of connecting to God). I tend to prefer to read or hear from another highly educated theologian or pastor in matters concerning my understanding of God.
But on the other hand, witness is powerful. You don’t have to have a seminary degree to experience the presence of God’s action in your life. When I hear people share their stories of God’s transformation love, I am inspired in ways no reading of Moltmann or Barth could ever produce (seminarians know what I’m talking about).
Heck, some of the most powerful theology I’ve ever experienced comes from children. In my work with kids who haven’t even completed second grade, much less a secondary degree, I am regularly blown away by the open curiosity and profound insights they’ve shared.
I guess this is my message for you today: your experience, your understanding of God, your theology—yes, we are all theologians!—matters. It’s important whether you have a seminary degree or didn’t finish high school; whether you’re a pastor or regular old Jane. Don’t be afraid to share your thoughts and ideas about God. Speak with boldness, as Peter and John, and know that you can have a profound impact on others.
Have I ever felt shy about sharing my thoughts in a Bible Study or other situation? Why?
