The story is told of an astronomer and a theologian seated together on an airplane.  After a bit of conversation that has revealed each one’s profession, the astronomer says, “I’ve always thought that theology is best stated in one sentence. Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.”  The theologian is dumbstruck.  A few moments later the theologian turns to the astronomer and says, “I’ve often thought that all of astronomy is best stated in one sentence: Twinkle, twinkle, little star, how I wonder what you are.”

Most of us are appalled to think that an adult would seriously reduce the complexities of science to a kindergarteners’ song. Yet it is not unusual for persons to end their religious education before they reach adulthood.

Even as the modern world demands that we have ever increasing knowledge and understanding of things both technical and scientific in order to live responsibly and stay healthy, so too if we are going to be in good spiritual health, and live in Christian discipleship, our knowledge and understanding of scripture and tradition must expand as we experience the world in new ways.

Christian education at its best is an opportunity to discover where God is present in our world, and to discern where God is leading us as we live in the world. 

Grace and Peace

                                                Barbara