Like everyone nowadays, we pull out our phones and try to take a picture of the sunset over the skyline, the sunset, or the twinkle of an iconic building. But when we look at the picture on our phones, it never quite matches the majesty of real-life.

The reason for this is because the depth perception of the eye is different than that of a camera. Technology simply cannot create the fullness of the experience. Besides the depth perception thing, there is the smell and the feel, the ineffable quality of being there. 

None of us would look at a picture of Thailand and tell people, “I’ve been there”. Although we can say that we have seen pictures of it, we cannot truly say we have seen it.

Yet, we do this very thing when it comes to truth. We’ve seen pictures of it and we claim we have seen it up close, know it, have experienced it. Pursuing a true perspective is like going to visit Thailand – smell the smells, feel the feels, perceive the depth. Too often, we settle for the photographed version of the truth. It is a hint, a shadow, a mere suggestion of the real thing.

The world is an ineffable place filled with majesty and tragedy alike. If we want to perceive it for all it is worth, we must look with honesty at our relationships, our institutions, and our own lives. Bring a community along to help point out the sights and smells we would otherwise miss.

Our photographs are nice. But there is more out there. We settle too often. Fight for understanding. Allow yourself to be challenged with humility. The reward is a clearer image of the truth of our world.

“The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”
– Proverbs 4:7