The School Crossing

Have you ever felt run-over by a Christian? Have you ever felt as though, while trying to grasp a theological topic, you were bashed or shut down harshly by someone who has claimed to be "Christian"? I know that I have. The analogy I wish to draw this week has to do with the pedestrian crossing sign, specifically those seen in school zones. 

School zones and pedestrian warning signs are designed to protect those trying to cross a street. They might be going at a slower pace than those in the cars, but their lives are equally valuable, even more so because of their vulnerable condition without a metal cage on wheels protecting them. The children crossing the road are depicted on the sign to specify that the area has a special purpose. It is right to slow down in these areas to respect the children and the teachers. I think we can all agree on that. 

Now, how this relates to Christianity and Culture is a bit more of a stretch. I wish to point out how some times, Christians do not respect the faith of their younger or newer brothers and sisters. As the new Christian or non-believer is stepping out to answer or ask a question, many times they are run over because a Christian thinks they know the best answer. I would submit that sometimes, even though one might truly believe they have the best way or answer, one must slow down and let the other discover the answer. Experiential learning is the best kind of learning. Running people over because they are "slower," younger," or "unprotected" is absolutely wrong. Just as you would slow down for a pedestrian crossing or a school zone, sometimes we must slow down for the discovery of an answer or question to come from somewhere else.