Stay Loyal to Reality: a discussion on the Bible and its relationship to reality
Thursday, April 20, 7pm, Villas of Holland clubhouse
Discussion session: Thursday, April 20, 7pm, 1199 Waterwalk Drive, Holland, BYOB
This coming Thursday, April 20, I will be hosting a discussion entitled, “Stay Loyal to Reality.” I am borrowing this phrase from Brian McLaren, a Christian author and speaker. In his most recent book, Do I Stay Christian?, McLaren urges everyone (but especially Christians) to show loyalty to “a lived realization of available data.” Sit with that for a minute. It’s important.
It’s hard to understand reality. The more we learn, the more complex and paradoxical it seems. But, there is a stark difference between “staying loyal to reality” and “staying loyal to the Bible/orthodoxy/God as defined by Christianity.” Loyalty to reality requires a comfortable relationship with doubt, unknowing, humility, and uncertainty. You must be willing to change your mind, or have it changed (by reality).
If you have time and interest, listen to the podcast episode below, in which McLaren and Barbara Brown Taylor discuss the importance of staying loyal of reality. You do not need to listen to the podcast in order to come to the discussion. I hope to see you on Thursday evening.