The Strange Thing about Harvard

I visited the campus of a place called Harvard University. Surrounded by harmoniously designed red brick buildings, Harvard Yard naturally stimulates one’s aspirations.

The original Harvard gate still prominently bears its centerpiece: a cross. Harvard’s original core purpose for being was to “educate the clergy.” It was primarily a seminary to train pastors in Bible and theology in the Christian worship of God. In truth, they had the heady, intellectual approach of the Enlightenment rather than practical training. That’s a big reason why things went the way they did.

Now as I walked the campus, I was surprised that a majority of people there were tourists. Yes, tourists. Big groups of them. The Harvard students all looked and acted quite normal; they were just trying to pass their classes.

I asked one student about the tour groups. He said that these groups came every day all year long—except when it rained. He said most of the groups were Chinese or Korean.

It struck me that this place that was originally founded to train pastors for the worship of God had now, in a sense, itself become a recipient of worship. That is, if you think of worship as adoration, people come from around the world to adore Harvard University. The endless tour groups testify to that.

I don’t mean to be critical or negative at all; it’s a simple observation. And I say this as one who has a doctorate and teaches theology. Regardless of original intent, and as good and important as theological education is, when we become enamored with academia and what we think we know, we succumb to the temptations of our own intellectual prowess. And our worship slowly and subtly shifts from the glory of God to the glory of us. Harvard is not unique in this; the phenomenon is everywhere. Harvard just has a particular history and prominence.

And, of course, it’s not only with academia. Anything in abundance can cloud our vision of God. Abundances like money, power, pleasure, technology, and a comfortable life can seduce us into to a false sense of our own centrality and importance. Humans are like that. That’s why a true connection with God must be deliberate, and it must be continually nurtured.

Have you ever done something that led you to lose sight of God in some way? Or to regain your sight of God?

What happened? What did you do?

And then try this: Consider doubting your doubts. And then believe your beliefs with both intellectual understanding and heart conviction.