Generally, "discernment" refers to one's ability to make sound judgments. But according to Oxford Languages Dictionary discernment can, in Christian contexts, emphasize "perception in the absence of judgment with a view to obtaining spiritual guidance and understanding" (emphasis mine). As we try to reconcile these two contradictory meanings of the same word, we might ponder the differences between perception and discernment, how one serves the other, and the limitations of both.

We know very well -- but often forget or choose to deny -- that our perceptions are limited and often flawed. Still, we make judgments based on those perceptions. Perhaps the two disparate meanings serve to highlight the importance of careful, conscious, evaluation of what we see (or think we see), what is important, and how we respond to life as it unfolds.

So, is discernment about judgment or perception? Well, why not both? Maybe discernment means recognizing the importance of making judgments with humility and care, knowing that we base them on our own perceptions.

In this service, Carolyn concludes our Star Words series with some reflections on her star word, Discernment.