Cleaning out old magazines – and I mean old—I came across an article by Walter Brueggemann in a 2007 Christian Century (see what I mean?). Much of what he wrote then applies today, which is a bit disconcerting. Commenting on how some call us “God’s Israel,” he suggested we are closer to being like the empires of old, which oppressed their own peoples to spread their power.
Although he wrote this article in the context of our war in Iraq, his comments apply to Christian nationalism, which attempts to co-opt Jesus into their view of the world. In response to the election, a Methodist clergyman stated how we as Christians must look beyond last Tuesday and continue to stand for justice, mercy, and peace.
As Christians we must continue to struggle for policies that are inclusive, reflecting the diversity of our Nation. Governments and particular leaders do not speak for the Gospel no matter what they claim. We know, like the prophets of old, that we cannot conflate ideologies, whether on the right or the left, with the ultimate reality found in God.
Prayer for the Day
Proud of our arms and wealth, we act as a mighty empire,
But they are not signs of righteousness in your sight;
Stunting our hearts and binding our spirits,
They become self-imposed shackles in our temple fortress.
Stir our hearts so we seek vulnerability rather than power,
Service rather than dominion and peace rather than war.
In the name of the One who teaches us to embrace your Kingdom,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Faith without action is hollow; this is the belief at the crux of our mission to build a new America rooted in justice and equity in which all people are afforded dignity and self-determination.
Dwayne Royster, United Methodist Church bishop
Movements [for social justice] are born not in times of peace but at the center of struggle, forged in fire, and shaped by hope.
Melissa Florer-Bixler, Pastor, Raleigh (NC) Mennonite Church
Hear this word, you cows of Bashan, who are on Mount Samaria,
Who oppress the poor, who crush the needy,
Who say to their husbands, “Bring me something to drink!”
The Lord God has sworn by holiness; the time is surely coming upon you,
When they shall take you away with hooks, even the last of you with fishhooks
Amos 4: 1-2