Tension.

The New World Dictionary records one of the eight definitions of the word as "a force or combination of forces tending to cause extension against the resistance of the material." Or as another definition puts it, "a balancing of forces and elements in opposition."

In this post-modern age we live in, and in every age that has ever gone before it, there exists great tension. Ideas, opinions, loyalties, worldviews, ethics, religion and cultural values all swirl together to create a climate that pushes and pulls at us. Voices come out of every area of life vying for our attention. Many of us come to find our place and take a stand to become one of those voices. We become a force for our values, our ideas, and our deepest beliefs. Yet, we also come across opposing voices that challenge us to our very core.

Should we ignore these opposing forces and pretend they don't exist? Should we take a stand against them and resist them at any opportunity given? Should we learn from them and try our best to understand them without judging? Should we open up a dialog and let these forces stretch us in hopes that ours may influence them? Perhaps at certain times any of the above could apply.

The fact of the matter is that behind these voices and forces are people. As people we like to identify ourselves with many different things. Unless we wish to become hermits or some kind of monk we will have to deal with other people who see things differently than we do. Human nature tends to pull us towards people that share the same ideals and beliefs that we do. We also tend to avoid those whom we might find ourselves in conflict with. This is all well and good, but should we remain too confined how can we become a voice? How can we relate to those different from us? How can we be a positive force in the midst of great tension?

In this blog I will explore many ideas on religion, worldview , current events, and other issues that may to most folks be controversial in nature. My stance is rooted in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. My voice will be to represent the truth to the best of my ability. Sometimes what I have to say might make you angry (even if you are a Christian). Please understand it is not my intention to be offensive, but I probably will offend at times. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me. My word is not the final authority. My words are not God's words, unless of course I quote the scriptures. Ultimately I am being a voice that stands for what God stands for (hopefully). I am being a force in a world of forces that are opposed to mine.

So herein lies the tension. It is time to face it, head on.