DEGREES OF FAITH
Fred Craddock tells of conducting a tour of the Holy Land. At one of the stops in Bethlehem, his group listened as a learned professor explained what they were seeing. “This is purported to be the birthplace of Jesus,” said the professor, “but the archaeology clearly shows that this is an 18th century rebuilding of a 3rd century Roman reconstruction.” He explained carefully how doubtful it was that this was Jesus’ real birthplace. At that moment another tour group wandered in, led by a much more believing or gullible guide. Kneeling there, he said to his group, “On this very spot, our Lord came into this world, with angels singing and shepherd’s kneeling and cattle lowing. Right at this exact spot.” Dr. Craddock reported that one member of his tour looked wistfully at the other group and said, “I wish I were with them!” Dick Underdahl-Peirce, Woodbury, MN
To view this resource, log in or sign up for a subscription plan
