I remember the first time I set foot on the University of Texas campus in Austin. I was excited, and very nervous, about the next step in my journey. On the main tower of the campus the words of John 8:32 were written. “…and you shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.” While I liked the words, I had no clue as to what the Bible verse meant. It would take many years on my journey before the reality of what it means to know the truth seeped into my life.
Truth is a very precarious thing. Many proclaim to know a generic truth which serves as a stumbling block to actually discovering our own perceptions of the truth. I love and embrace the fact that Jesus did not say something like, “You shall know the truth and practice it in this way, and believe it in only this way, and…” Jesus simply said, “Know the truth and let it liberate you.”
While there is one prime source to truth there are many hearts and minds that seek the ultimate realities of what it means to live in the presence of God. It is like a house which is built out of brick. While every block functions as part of the main structure of the building, each brick is distinct in its look and placement in the foundation of the house.
When Paul went on to discuss the various gifts that we all share, he likened us to various parts of the body. Though we serve many functions, we are created with different ways of achieving one goal. We are to praise our creator. We are designed for that purpose.
Our various gifts remind us that we are not all the same. This truth in which we are to live is meant to be done with a sense of wild abandonment and not fear or conformity. We are to serve completely and passionately. Our reality should be aligned with God. Out of this sense of unity with the Divine source we are to celebrate and be glad. This truth sets us free.
I have come a long way since the University of Texas. Along my journey, I have had many experiences that have opened my eyes to the truth within me. My discovery of God is unique unto me and does not rely on anyone else. God radically transformed my life and I serve with a sense of comfort that I am an original work of art. We all are. I must remember to allow the master artist to paint the truth of beauty and love within me and all of those around me. I am not called to judge the work of the artist. I am called to love the artist and the painting. Know the truth and let it really set you free!
From a Pastor's Point of View 