The question of the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been in the press recently. Questions have been raised over whether we know what we are doing, or if there is a real risk, like something from a science fiction novel, of the invention taking over the inventor.
I have recently been in a situation where I have witnessed at first hand the harm done when humans lose their sense of humanity and hide behind process in order to justify a decision.
When we become entangled in anything that lacks empathy, whether process, system, machine or anything else you can think of, in the end we are liable to be hurt. It was rigid adherence to process that led to the crucifixion but it was the need for empathy with the state of humanity that drove the need for resurrection.
Resurrection is the victory of life over death but it is also a powerful demonstration of the love God has for those created beings – us – who get caught in rigid mechanisms that overcome and cause harm.
Today’s Psalm is number 8, an outpouring of praise in extravagant language and offered to the Majestic God who is dominant over all. He second verse reflects that much of God’s strength has derived from the simple praise of those who may not understand but who recognise where love comes from:
Through the praise of children and infants
you have established a stronghold against your enemies,
to silence the foe and the avenger. [Psalm 8:2]
As we look back on the rejoicing of Easter let us not lose sight of God’s phenomenal love.
A prayer
God, I wish I could be simpler in how I express my love, gratitude, and praise. God, I want to be empathetic and not to work like a machine, to know when process is inappropriate or broken. God, is it I who needs to be silenced by the praises of children and infants?
Speak to me and help me to re-order my thoughts, sort my perspective and get to the right place in my relationship with you so I can properly see your love, feel your love and share your love, for Jesus’s sake. Amen.