Ok, so I have just finished reading the Shack, by WM. Paul Young, and I must say that I have been touched on so many different levels. However, it has been brought to my attention that there are many that seem to be upset with the novel and are reaping controversy within the Christian community. After reading the book, I was definitely hungry to read more of the Word of God and was hungry to want to seek His face. Now, correct me if I am wrong, but isn't that what "inspirational" reading material is called to do-to inspire you, in some way, to move to action.
Are there parts to this FICTIONAL piece of work that I might not totally agree with? OF COURSE! Regardless, there is still some truth. It seems that so many people are trying to find something wrong instead of truly seeing God in everything. If there is disagreement on the truthfulness of the book, then there must be continued disagreements on the countless sermons, commentaries, and books that have been written by man.
As human beings, we are flawed and we will never truly understand God because we are not God. Our theories are flawed, our love is warped, our hearts are filled with so much garbage that we will never truly be able to speak 100% truth. Why? Because we are imperfect, but it is through the grace of God that we are here on this Earth and He is the only one whose love is perfect, whose truth is all powerful and all we can do is continue on this journey until we meet with Him one day :).
Is controversy good? Yes. It calls people to think and pray and seek truth. We should not believe everything we read, but instead, seek God for ourselves and allow Him to reveal His truth to us. As we seek that truth, let us also not judge one another and build walls, but let us rest in what He has called us to do: to love and serve one another.
So my challenge to you is to seek God in your own personal walk, and as you love and serve those you encounter.
