Sometimes I just wonder about words. Harebrain is one of them. Where did such a term ever come from? In doing some exploring the first thing I found was that the original term was “harebrain” not “hairbrain” although both terms and spellings have been in use for over 500 years. It seems that the origin of the term was meant to describe those who would rush to unsound conclusions and ideas, as a hare would jump from place to place. What a good way that is to describe what often goes for wisdom in our churches. Note this observation by Paul:
1 Corinthians 3:18-20
Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.
For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.
And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.
One of the latest “harebrained” ideas I heard was that Christians ought to settle together in communities and form their own culture and space. And I don’t doubt there are those who would get on that bandwagon and advocate it. However, it is very clear that God has chosen to spread His people out among the culture to influence and preserve it. It is a hard work and I am not surprised that some would attempt to avoid it.
It is the church that is our community and it is our privilege to meet there for rest, fellowship and equipping, and then go out to minister. It seems there is no end these days to professional solutions and ideas while God’s simple plan goes on far more successfully. It is neighbors and friends living Christ and that wonderful gift, the local church.
