"Doing Theology" and Willie NelsonWhat is theology? And what does Willie Nelson have to do with theology? Both are legitimate questions, and both are certainly not limited to one answer.
The word theology, for example, is not found anywhere in the Bible, nor is there any word in the Scriptures which is an accurate synonym for the word. Yet we all likely agree that it is a word which refers to a study focusing on God - - - the nature and character of God and God's relationships to all God's creation, including human beings and the universe.
We most often think of ministers and seminary professors as those who are engaged in "doing theology." But the fact is we all consciously or unconsciously engage in "doing theology," i.e., reflecting upon who God is and how God acts, and therefore, how we should act. But most often we do that in an occasional, non-systematic way.
For four Wednesday nights beginning on September 17, I will be leading a seminar in which I will ask participants to engage in intentionally "doing theology."
This is a task which is possible for all of us and valuable for each one. The focus of our efforts will be "the human condition and the meaning of our existence." For theology, while its primary focus in on God, encompasses also the meaning of life and the purpose of our existence. No final answers with respect to these broad concerns will be proffered, but rather will be probed together.
And our probing will be stimulated by an unlikely source - - - the songs of Willie Nelson. Using the music and lyrics of this well-known country western singer, participants will reflect theologically on the following topics, among others: "Why are we here?," "What does it mean to be a human being created in God's image?," "Why do innocent people suffer?," "The Meaning of Gifts," "Ministry as Hospitality," "Beginnings and Endings in Life," "What Can I Expect From Others?," "What Responsibilities Do I Have As a Christian?."
I believe an important aspect of our ongoing religious journey is to continue to reflect upon the nature of the God who has called us to be faithful people in this, God's world. I also believe that no one person has complete or exclusive understanding of what being faithful means or how that it is to be lived out. So, I invite you to attend these sessions in anticipation of thinking some different thoughts and hopefully enriching your own understanding of the joy and meaning of the Christian life. I look forward to engaging in this endeavor with you.
-- Robert E Shelton