"Why don't you say it like other preachers? Why do you say it differently?" People ask me that, from time to time, regarding my theological interpretations both from the pulpit and in writing. What I say, and not in a flippant way, is that, "I say what I say because life happens." There is a familiar image that may help explain.

            Our lives, our faith journeys, rest on three legs-like a three-legged stool. One leg is the tradition, often a religious tradition. It includes the Bible and the long procession of those who have lived and modeled faith for us. A second leg is the community: often a faith community of fellow travelers who support and inspire us, and who help hold us accountable for our choices and actions. A third leg is that mystical and intimate connection we have with the Holy-a very present and powerful relationship with God and the core of ourselves.

            These three aspects of our lives exist in a certain tension. Theology is how we articulate our understanding of life lived in that tension. We experience life. We seek truth and integrity as we live. We seek to be awake to God's presence in that living. In my experience, theological understanding needs grow as a result of our living and our reflecting on that living. Sometimes we will take a different path, a road less traveled, because our faith insists that we question our theology.

            This is a very brief description my approach to understanding, articulating, and living faith. If you are interested in reading more about this, I hope you'll read some of my "Ezine articles" (the link is listed above) and consider getting a copy of my new book, Finding Faith: Honest Answers About God, the Bible, and the Church Today (press release below).

Thanks for continuing to bless me as we journey together.
  
Jack Price

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