OCTOBER 9/10, 2021
Thin-slicing is a psychological and philosophical term that describes the ability to make snap decisions based on limited information or narrow windows of experience. Many studies have demonstrated that brief observations can be used to analyze complex situations at higher levels of probability than mere random chance.
These are what we might call ‘hunches’ or a ‘gut feelings.’ There is the old saying that “the first impression is the most lasting,” and this, too – they say – comes from thin-slicing.
In his popular book titled Blink, author Malcolm Gladwell presents several examples and case studies where thin-slicing has proved more accurate than detailed research.
Thin slicing, however is not without its detractors. Prejudices and racial profiling also stem from drawing conclusions with limited knowledge. And research shows that emotions distort the accuracy of thin-slicing.
Gladwell acknowledges the limitations of thin-slicing, and argues that this type of intuition is developed by training, knowledge, and experience.
Today is the 28th Sunday of Ordinary Time.
In our Gospel reading from St. Mark today, we hear the story of the Rich Young Man.
He has lived a life in accordance with the Ten Commandments, and proudly proclaims that he has “observed them [all] from [his] youth.”
Jesus tells him that he is “lacking in one thing”, and tells him to go and sell everything he has and give the proceeds to the poor.
The Rich Young Man obviously knew about Jesus. He was most likely not unfamiliar with Jesus’ teaching. And he revered Him, kneeling down before Him to ask his question.
He had a hunch that there was something extraordinary in these teachings … something extraordinary in the Person of Jesus Christ. And his first impression proves to be true.
But on second thought, he has misgivings. And he are told that “he went away sad, for he had many possessions.”
In the first reading from the Book of Wisdom, the author – considered to be King Solomon himself – tells how he treasured God’s Wisdom above scepter and throne, riches and gems, silver and gold, health and good looks … pointing out that “all good things together came to me in [the] company [of Wisdom] and countless riches [as well.]”
Too often we become creatures of habit, operating on instinct alone, and becoming immersed in the cares and concerns of the world.
God takes a back seat. His Wisdom is ignored for the ideas of society and culture. And God falls into second, third, fifth, tenth, or worse place.
What is that “one thing” that keeps us from truly following Jesus? For one person it might one thing … for another something entirely different.
The Letter to the Hebrews compares “the word of God … [to a] two-edged sword”. Slicing through our illusions and confusions to help us “discern [our] reflections and thoughts” in the Light of God’s Wisdom.
Jesus Christ calls each of us to follow Him. And to do this, we all must discern what that “one thing” is … give it up .. and follow Him. Otherwise we may end up going away sad.
As we approach this altar to receive the Sacred Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ, let us pray to slice through our thoughts and ideas … and clearly see in the Light of God’s Word – what is the one thing holding us back from a deeper relationship with God in Christ. May the graces of the Sacrament of the Altar truly “[f]ill us with [God’s] love” through all our days … every day … in the power and glory of the Holy Spirit.
