THE MOST DANGEROUS ILLUSION

 

THE MOST DANGEROUS ILLUSION What is the most dangerous illusion? Those who believe they cannot be wrong. Social Media, source unknown. An unteachable spirit is a great tragedy, especially when it comes to matters of faith; because we can't possibly have clear discernment without the ability to listen carefully. Careful listening requires us to slow down, stop our own thoughts and focus on what others are saying. This is true whether we're listening to people, or listening to God. The conspiracy groups are the most unteachable people I have encountered. That includes the far left as well as the far right: their stubbornness is exactly the same. People are listening to extreme interpretations of what's happening in our world, and they seem to love those extreme interpretations. They love the self-righteous anger, the hate, the intense emotions that those conspiracy gurus stir up. Never mind that what they're saying is not quite true, or an outright lie: it just feels good to hear the bitterness that flows from such sources. Perhaps this is because people are feeling angry and fearful, and the conspiracy theorists give them hope that something is being done. When in fact, NOTHING productive comes from any of that chatter. What it does is drive a deeper wedge between people, including families and friends, as well as citizens. Unfortunately, our major news outlets aren't any better than the off-road conspiracy websites. They're making things up and inventing their own "truth" also. Satan (the great Liar) is obviously taking an active part in all of these things.  People are being hardened until they lose the ability to be reasonable, temperate... or even considerate. For them, everything exists in black-or-white, for-or-against, good-or-evil, us-or-them. But Jesus didn't divide people like that. He didn't regard ANYONE as disposable or deplorable. He came to save everyone. Each one. Anyone. He came to reconcile people to God, to soften hearts, teach humility and show us the better Way to live. Jesus is the only hope we have in this world, because ANY other path is loaded with bitterness that leads to despair. Pride makes people stubborn and unreasonable. The humility that Jesus teaches enables us to learn moderation, patience and gentleness. Humility makes it possible for us to hear.