why i question--thoughts so far

For me the motivations for asking questions are as varied as the questions themselves. Sometimes the question is a straightforward request for information. I really want to know and think the one I ask has the knowledge I seek.

But often there are layers of motives that underlie the words I speak. I may know the answer but want to hear you say the words. Emotionally I am needy and questioning is a backhanded way to manipulate another. I may know the answer but hope that you will come to awareness of that knowledge by prompting your thinking by questioning. Often in teaching my questions were designed to bring students to point of truth.

In conversation my questions may be a means to open a discussion. While I may have an opinion I am interested in hearing your view and deepening, modifying, expanding my idea. Questions of this sort help me refine my understanding and clarify truth. I also, like most, ask for help—a question of will you and vulnerability.

I could probably begin to organize my questioning by using the beginning word—why, will you, when or where, and what—a search for reason, a request, a desire for information, and an interest in viewpoints.

Could my motives be important to Jesus as I come with questions?
Does he know more clearly than I why I ask?

More questions--I'm incorrigible

Lord Jesus, open our senses so that we may find your truth. Quiet our strivings. Inform our questioning. Amen.

Blessings Caroline

FRIDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY

Friday after Ash Wednesday:
Come to the River

John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Mark 1:4

Imagine you are along the river Jordan. A wild looking man, dressed in the offerings of the land is drawing a crowd. Why are they there? You had hoped for a quiet day sitting on the bank throwing a line out to see if anything bites. Mostly you wished to drink in the warm sun and the sweet smell of the new growth of spring. Now you would have to contend with the crowd and the strange man preaching. You wander toward the place where the crowd gathers. The preacher is in the water! He is greeting those from the crowd who go out. He holds them, bends each backward into the water. They seem to trust him. As you watch they come up radiant. What is going on? Repentance, forgiveness of sins, someone says. Returning to your original place on the bank you feel pulled to review your own life. Scenes pass in front of you—the present, the past, relationships, God.

Who are you now?
Let God be your guide as you answer. What must you confess? For what will you give thanks? What are your deepest desires? Experience anew the baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.




Lord Jesus, I confess…have mercy on me; forgive my sins.
We confess… have mercy on our world; forgive our sins.
Lord Jesus, I give thanks…continue to bless this earth.
Lord Jesus, I desire…bend my will to your own;
We wish…redeem all of creation.

Amen.