How have we learned of Space or the deeps of the sea or Antarctica? Through those people who have explored them. How then can we learn of the deep places of God? Again, an answer is through our exploration. Words like ‘wonder’, ‘maybe’ or ‘where’ exemplify the activities involved in exploration. Those of us involved in facilitating discipleship therefore need to act and speak in ways that give space for others to wonder and explore. We would want to avoid those actions and words that restrict learners to the right answer or the correct meaning of a text. I am not saying here that there is no best way or correct interpretation merely that telling it as it is will restrict learners from appreciating it, contextualising and enacting it in their own lives. I suspect that the cell, retreats, contemplation and soul friendship are mechanisms that currently exist to encourage exploration but I think that we can do more. We have all eternity to explore the infinity of God and I think that gives us some time for a few diversions. Additionally, it should provoke in us a certain humility when we define what God is like or what (s)he requires of us! However, diversions can become being lost and freedom of definition can become sloppy thinking – here again we see the need for community in learning for, dare I say it, availability and vulnerability.
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