In 2013, living in faith means living at odds with the central values that drive our dynamic, knowledge-based, information-hungry world. In faith, we take heart in things we cannot know. We find comfort in things for which information is not available. At the same time, however, faith does not believe. It is familiar with doubt and with unbelief. It feels comfortable with them and, in fact, journeyed long with them. Faith cherishes doubt and embraces unbelief—but only as the platform on which it rests.
"Rests" is the key word here. Faith is a coming to rest. It gently sinks below the questions, important as they are. It humbly puts aside its belief and unbelief alike, slowly drifting below them as well. Faith comes to rest in a place where the Unknown inspires confidence. It resides in a land where not-knowing is not ignorance and a lack of information is the beginning of wisdom. Faith is not built out of research. Its truths cannot be proven, either from a test tube or by citing verses from a holy book. Faith is not interested in proof because it gently, quietly, and with profound humility seeks a deeper, quieter world of "rest". Silence is its best friend. Meditation is its path. Dialogue is its joy. Wisdom is its ultimate goal. And beyond these things lies the Unseen in which it is fully confident and happily certain. Amen.
