On holiday in the USA, I visited a church which had the legend ‘Doubting Thomases Welcome!’ emblazoned across the doorway. That’s the church for me! I thought.
Who declared The opposite of faith isn’t doubt; it’s certainty? I’ve lost count of the times I’ve been helped through my own faith wobbles by holding fast to that statement.
I’m in good company. Good old John Donne, in his Satire III wrote:
…doubt wisely; in strange way
To stand inquiring right, is not to stray;
…On a huge hill,
Cragged and steep, Truth stands, and that he will
Reach her, about must and about must go,
And what the hill’s suddenness resists, win so.
Malcom Guite reflects on this and other poems in his anthology The Word in the Wilderness: A Poem a Day for Lent and Easter , ( Canterbury Press) It’s an excellent read for Lent, but of course you can embark on this search for truth, this reorientation, at any time of the year.
I’d love to know what poetry, novels, music or works of art have helped you on your journey? Do feel free to share with me in the comments.
“The opposite of faith isn’t doubt, it’s certainty.” I really like that!
Thanks, Seriously. Hope you find it as helpful as I do!
I had an inspiring (& contemplative) experience with Michelangelo’s Creation in the Sistine Chapel awhile ago & find many works of art & music enhance my Lenten journey. I read Henri Nouwen’s “Return of the Prodical Son” years ago (& shared it with several book groups.) This year I found his follow-up book “Home Tonight” that I’m currently reading. Blessings (& hope!) – ???????????????? ????
And hope to you, too, Virginia! I’ve found Nouwen’s writings helpful, too, although I’ve not heard of the second book you mentioned. Must look it up and put it on the ‘to read’ pile.
I’ve been enjoying dipping into Mark Oakley’s The Splash of Words – poems + commentary. Very good.
Yes, I love that collection, too. It’s one of my favourite anthologies. Great minds think alike!