One of the greatest mistakes we make as human beings is assuming that we see "things" (the world and all that is in it) the "right" way. Soong-Chan Rah writes, "Sin results when human beings attempt to take God's place in creation. In other words, we make ourselves the standard of reference in the determination of our values and norms" (p.80).When we fail to recognize our own presuppositions in relationship to God and creation we give way to a defensive posture based out of a fear that truth will be compromised. The fear that keeps us from recognizing our own flawed worldview is, at best, not conducive to healthy growth and, at its worst, causes us to respond to others (and their worldviews) in ways that are violent and oppressive (i.e. racism, nationalistic imperialism, and even petty arguments).
Until we realize that none of us view this world objectively we will continue to be steeped in trying to make "our way" become "everyone else's way". And if we continue along that path then greed, violence, and anger will most certainly follow.
Yet our call as kingdom people is much different; we are to be a servants, disciples, students, and learners. If we are to engage, learn from, and benefit from the depth of others we need to posture ourselves in ways that exude meekness and humility. It is through this type of engagement with the broader world (and the many worldviews that exist within it) that the ground can become fertile for the hallmarks of our confession: faith, hope, and love.
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