Recently my theological studies have presented moments of awakening that led to growth in multiple areas. This occurred in different settings but the reason is the same. I'm open to learning and recognize that learning opportunities are presented in almost every experience. In a recent Bible study session, a question was posed that set me on a path I'm still traveling now. My efforts to answer the question proved the depth of the question itself. My answer seems to change based on the contextual lens I use to consider the question. This boggles my mind. I have learned more about myself and my worldview as a result of this quest. I'll publish a series addressing the question at a later date. For now, my thoughts on the topic has produced essays not ready for foreign eyes.

I started a course titled Church and Society. I'm not sure what I expected going into this class, but the first hour opened my eyes to a new way of studying the Bible. This is not a Bible study course, but I was motivated to come home and read the Gospel According to Mark with this new technique as if I've never read it before. Of course, I'm not done yet, but I'm excited about the better understanding I'll gain based on what I got out of the preview in class.

Now obviously a Bible study session at a church and a class at school are designed for learning. But that doesn't mean learning happens at such a transformative level every time you experience it. Some lessons are learned weeks, months, even years after the lesson was introduced. The time it takes to learn a lesson is not as important as the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. When a person is open to learning, the lessons will be received and some will be instantly transformative.

With all the distractions we have in our lives today, we must make a worthy effort not to close ourselves to learning in any environment, from anyone, which inevitably blocks the lesson. A lesson that we could desperately need. I said all this to make this point. 

Take a moment to reflect on what you learned today or within the past week that had an instant transformative effect on you. Write the lesson learned. Observe your behavior prior to this moment and after. Contemplate the benefits and opportunities presented as a result. Going forward, make an effort to acknowledge these moments. It is moments like these that help shape us into effective students of life that can serve others with positive learning. Find the joy in your learning today.