will@aristotle.ils.nwu.edu (William Fitzgerald) (11/09/90)
I wanted to thank you for your postings on soc.religion.christian. It was clear that you were speaking from your heart; I hope that the flames which are likely to come will not be taken as reflecting on your honesty and integrity; but rather on the writer's personality. I've felt in the middle of the same dilemma, caught between honesty and ability. It's clear that being intelligent isn't enough to solve life's problems (witness your divorce; and I could share similar experiences). I'm more and more convinced that the God really does have a preference for the weak; and although I can rejoice in the intellect He's given me as His gift - a real gift, not to be denegraded, by myself or others, I'm called into a body where (as Paul puts it) the "hidden parts" are of more concern. God shows His preferential option for the left-out ones in many ways: though the scriptures in the teachings of the prophets, Jesus, Paul; though the type of paradox you've mentioned; though pouring out his Spirit on the poor in our day. I once thought I should be a leader in the church because I was so smart; now I realize that it's more important that leaders be moral, loving, open to the Spirit, etc. Currently, I want to use all my intellect to faithfully follow Jesus and to support his body the church. May God be with you. Regards, Will Fitzgerald (will@aristotle.ils.nwu.edu)