a view from the left

a couple of weeks ago I had the privelege of attending a debate in the Big Easy on the "future of atheism." There were many scholars there from both sides of the aisle, Christian philosophers and apologists William Lane Craig and Allister McGrath eloquently made the argument for the case for the existence of God. On the other side were scholars of the atheistic belief with world renowned atheist Daniel Dennett, author of "Breaking the Spell" and "Darwin's Dangerous Idea" headlining the card (to use a little MMA terminology). The debate was lively, intelligent, courteous and fruitful. It certainly proved again how feeble is my wee little mind. In the ensuing week after the conference I took it upon myself to email Dr. Dennett and simply thank him for coming to New Orleans and engaging the christian community in an intellectually honest debate. You see most atheists believe that Christians hate them militantly. This presumption, which may be of course true in some cases, only serves to fan the flame of their passsionate zeal to oppose and resist the truth that is in front of us every day. The clearly hidden truth of design. I did not expect Dr. Dennett to respond to my email. Not only did he respond but he actually engaged my statements and respondied to me specifically and personally. When I got done reading the message I felt honored and respected. I had received a personal email from a Pulitzer Prize finalist! There are many pastors today who never even see half of the correspondence that comes from their own people. I felt valued and it made me want to hear more about what Dr. Dennett has to say. I know we are far from each other in terms of our beliefs. But now instead of thinking of them as the enemy, I see them much more like I think Jesus would have me to, with compassion. Funny how so many christians are so much more interested in being heard than hearing. The best way to open the door to anyone is by letting down your guard and listening to more than their words, listen to their life.