“Enlightenment” at 31,000 Feet

Boarding a commercial flight is one of the more awkward of our social encounters. But if we overcome our homophobic tendencies and the invasion of our personal space, God can use us in these unique situations to engage people from

all walks of life. Airplane flights are a rare ­opportunity afforded us in our hurried culture to sit and converse with people about things of eternal value.

The young man who clambered over my tightly-retracted knees to plop into the airplane seat to my left was far from a stereotypical geek. Intentionally disheveled hair, various anatomical piercings, square-rimmed glasses, and painted-on trousers all pointed to his preferred mix of gothic and über-european fashion. From his pockets and handbag there protruded various widgets and high tech squiggly things.

Once airborne and approaching cruising altitude, there was brief opportunity to engage Matt before the captain gave passengers permission to fire up any and/or all electronics and insert their iPod earbuds.

“Interesting choice of reading—is it enlightening?” I initiated, referring to a book he had not yet opened on the tray table in front of him. It was a collection of writings from the Dalai Lama. The sub-line read, “…a must-read for those who are searching for a path to a more joyful and fulfilling life.” Matt lit up at the chance to converse and went on to articulate that he has been on a spiritual journey of discovery. The dialogue that followed was spattered with various phrases in which Matt identified himself to be Catholic and homosexual, as well as being on the path of enlightenment through “Eastern Wisdom”. He also gave bitter testimony that he had been kicked to the curb of religious intolerance by “hypocritical Christians” trying to change who he is.

Tactfully, I admitted that I hadn’t met anyone recently with his unique worldview, but I was curious: “Aside from your negative experiences with religious people, do you think the Bible has any relevance in your spiritual journey?” Matt toyed with his silver lip stud as he pondered the question. His response was transparent.

“I think it’s relevant only as a historical document,” he said. Then he went on to ask, “Besides, is it really possible for someone to find insight and enlightenment from just one source—like the Bible?”

Matt’s question is valid. And the answer, according to the Bible itself, is that God makes himself and his ways quite clear—he does not stay hidden. He also claims to be the only true source of wisdom.

“Where then does wisdom come from? Where does understanding dwell? God understands the way to it and he alone knows where it dwells, for he views the ends of the earth and sees everything under the heavens.”

Job 28: 20, 23, 24

The ancient book, the Holy Bible, is, as Matt said, a history book. But that is not all it is. Many who haphazardly delve into its pages find the message confusing and presume that it is not trustworthy. I challenged Matt to take the necessary time to discover for himself (apart from any religious affiliation) what the Bible’s message really is. In the course of his search for enlightenment, it is an exercise well worth the time invested.

"... He rewards those who earnestly seek him."

Hebrews 11:6

Like a carpenter trying to imagine a house in its entirety by examining just one two-by-four, so is the person who does not take the time to discover God’s blueprint, which is clearly evident through His Word.

I handed Matt a copy of By This Name and he eagerly scanned its cover, front and back. “I think this might be exactly what I’ve been searching for!” he exclaimed. As our flight came to final approach, we swapped contact information. God is extending his loving patience toward Matt as we continue our discussion via email.

“…but [God] is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish but that all should reach repentance.”

2 Peter 3:9

For the first time he is discovering for himself the person and the provision of our Lord Jesus Christ. Matt’s true journey to spiritual understanding began at 31,000 feet.