I had gone to University to study physics, but in my spare time I became involved with a Christian group on campus. I began to feel a strong call to ministry, but I dreaded the conversation with my father that I knew was coming. Dad had no use for religion. He felt it was a human fabrication. When I told him I planned to go to seminary after graduation, he said it was wiser in his mind to pursue a career in physics. My decision, he said, was a mistake — and very foolish.
Jews had no trouble believing in a savior, but they insisted on miraculous signs that he had truly come. Greeks insisted on the “wisdom” of polished philosophy. To their ears the tale of a crucified savior was a foolish bit of legend.
Some of us today are still like this. Some want unmistakable proofs that God is real. Others prefer philosophical clarity, especially scientific precision. But God asks us to have faith in the story of Jesus, who died in shame on a cross and rose to life three days later. An unbelievable tale. Scientific rubbish.
No! The foolishness of God is true wisdom. To those of us who are being saved, the news of Jesus on the cross is the power of God at work. The weakness of God is real strength. No mightier deed has ever been accomplished.
It is truly amazing grace. Rejoice in God’s foolishness today!
Lord, thank you for the cross of Christ, a wisdom greater than any human plan. Let his death and resurrection be the great signs that shape my life and lead me forward. Amen.
Go Deeper — Is there any of the Jesus story that you don’t quite get? Find a fellow Christan or one of our online mentors to discuss it with you. As you talk, ask the Holy Spirit to give you the wisdom to understand this holy foolishness.
Photo Credit: Ümit Bulut